Taoiseach Leo Varadkar issued a statement suggesting that a negative outcome in the upcoming referendums regarding family and care would be detrimental to the country. He spoke in anticipation of the Friday ballot, where the nation will vote on possible changes to the Constitution. These potential amendments are regarding the perception of ‘family’, primarily expanding it to incorporate cohabiting couples and their progenies. Moreover, they concern language replacement that would recognise in-home care within families, contrasting with the current, arguably outdated language focusing on women’s roles at home.
While in Bucharest, Romania, he addressed the media and expressed his view of the Constitution as reflecting national societal values. He voiced concern that a no vote could imply a disconnect between the legal definition of family and the individuals it currently excludes. Furthermore, he cautioned against passively accepting the old-fashioned linguistic representation of women’s roles in a domestic context. Such a failure to acknowledge family carers would represent a missed opportunity, he added.
Despite these views, Peadar Tóibín, the leader of Aontú, criticised the proposal relating to family, suggesting it as ‘virtue signalling’ and a potential heaven for lawyers. At a press conference, he indicated that while the revision of the now-antiquated language would be welcomed to better reflect contemporary Ireland, the Government’s amendments were flawed. Some opposition parties that initially supported the referendums have not been vocal recently, he pointed out and suggested some government TDs were acting similarly. Aontú remains the only political party advocating for negative votes on both referendum proposals.
The Free Legal Advice Centre, among other campaigners, critique the proposed language for the care referendum, arguing it does little in terms of providing carers, the elderly, or disabled individuals with enforceable or enhanced state services. Varadkar, nevertheless, refuted this perspective, arguing the amendment does not exempt the state from its care responsibilities.
The Taoiseach expressed his belief that the referendums are likely to succeed, adding that he’s not particularly bothered by how wide or narrow the passing margin may be. He pointed out that the divorce vote was successful despite a razor-thin margin, noting that at the end of the day every victory counts, irrespective of how close the results may be.
He emphasised the importance of making their voices heard to the public and impressed upon them their role as the true custodians of the Constitution.
The Oireachtas Women’s Caucus chair, Fiona O’Loughlin, said that even though the group was aware of the criticisms that exist, they felt the changes symbolised a move toward equality. The Fianna Fáil Senator encouraged citizens to vote in favour in both referendums on Friday.
The leader of the Labour Party, Ivana Bacik, also supported the amendments, pointing out that, although many people find them insufficient, they still represent advancement. She reminded people about the 87 years waited for such a progressive move, emphasising the importance of casting their votes, as the text before them is what they are voting for. Bacik ascertained that her vote will be in favour.
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