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The Deirdre Jacob case - from missing person file to murder investigation

Deirdre Jacob was last seen within yards of the driveway to her parents’ house.

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

ON 28 JULY 1998, Deirdre Jacob disappeared from her hometown of Newbridge in Co Kildare. Today, more than 20 years on, her case has been upgraded to a murder investigation.

There has been much speculation around the 18-year-old’s disappearance over the years, particularly as a number of other young women went missing in the country between 1993 and 1995.

However it is only in the last year that gardaí received the information they needed to upgrade the investigation from a missing person’s case to a murder inquiry.

Deirdre’s last movements

Deirdre Jacob had finished her first year of study at St Mary’s University in Twickenham, London, where she was training to become a teacher. She had returned for the summer and was staying with her parents at the family home in Newbridge.

On 28 July, she left the house at around 12.50pm and went to Newbridge town to visit her grandmother in her shop.

Deirdre left the shop and went to the local AIB bank and then the Post Office. She needed a bank draft to send a rent deposit to her friend as she was due to start her second year of teacher training in Twickenham after the summer.

After this, she went back to her grandmother’s shop before heading for home, which was a 25-minute walk from the town. Footage released by gardaí today shows the young woman walking through down the Main Street at 2.35pm.

An Garda Síochána An Garda Síochána

She was wearing a navy, v-neck t-shirt and dark-coloured jeans with blue Nike runners. She was also carrying a black satchel bag with the Caterpillar logo (CAT) in large yellow letters.

She was last seen at around 3pm within yards of the driveway to her parents’ house on the Barrettstown Road, Roseberry.

Deirdre never made it inside.

Crimestoppers Crimestoppers

Twenty years of appeals

Deirdre’s case has been one of the most high-profile missing persons investigations in Ireland and there have been regular appeals by gardaí and her family over the past two decades.

Motorists had seen her within yards of the family’s driveway, but beyond that there were no further sightings of her.

Garreth MacNamee / TheJournal.ie Garreth MacNamee / TheJournal.ie / TheJournal.ie

Over the last 12 months local investigators and the Serious Crime Review Team have reviewed this case in detail and last month her family made their 20th anniversary appeal.

“It’s a big jigsaw and there’s one piece missing. We believe there is someone out there who knows what happened and that they have a vital piece of information. It has been a long and desperate 20 years for our family. But it has also been a long time for a person out there to hold on to information,” Michael Jacob told TheJournal.ie at the time.

“Every time an appeal is made someone comes forward with a little bit of information. somewhere along the way we will convince that person with information to come forward.

If there’s someone out there with information – they’ve been holding onto it for a long while. It must bother them. Why not come forward now? It’s 20 years. Come forward and get it off your mind and you’ll feel better for it.

RTÉ Crimecall RTÉ Crimecall

Breakthrough

In a fresh appeal this morning, gardaí announced they have upgraded the case to a murder investigation.

They made this decision following the review over the last 12 months and “substantial” new information coming to light. TheJournal.ie understands that a person of interest, known to gardaí for violent crimes, has been identified.

Chief Superintendent Brian Sutton said that he expects searches to be carried out in the coming weeks and he urged anyone whose “moral compass” may have changed to come forward.

“We pulled apart the investigation. Detectives from Kildare along with officers in the serious crime review team have been working on this,” he told TheJournal.ie.

We saw new lines of inquiry that needed to be followed and new information had come to light as well. We sat down around six weeks ago and decided to reclassify this as a murder investigation.

“We know these new lines of information need to be corroborated and that’s what we’re working on now.”

He said that gardaí will be re-interviewing people and are also appealing for anyone with any information to get in touch.

Deirdre’s parents Michael and Bernadette said this morning’s news has left them shocked.

Speaking to TV3, they said: “It’s still a shock – it’s a real heart wrencher we were literally stunned. Nobody wants to hear that their child has been murdered. It seems new information – that a crucial piece that will move things on was found.”

Gardaí have taken more than 2,000 statements and followed over 2,500 different lines of inquiry during the 20-year investigation.

An incident room has now been set up at Kildare Garda Station, and the investigation team are following a number of lines of enquiry.

The investigation team can be contacted at Kildare Garda Station on 045 521222 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.

-With reporting by Garreth MacNamee

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5 Comments
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    Mute Petr Tarasov
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:05 PM

    Good on them. Solidarity.

    410
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    Mute Andrzej Kubiz
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:36 PM

    Marriage is for a man and woman only. Let’s hope this activity stays illegal.

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    Mute Auntie Dote
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:38 PM

    You find equality so hard to tolerate?

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    Mute Andrzej Kubiz
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:43 PM

    You forget that this is a Catholic country. 86% I believe from the last census. Why cater for a minority who want to go against the law? This isn’t about equality as the group ‘pride’ themselves on being different. If you want equality then marry someone of the opposite sex. Simple, yes?

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    Mute TuneWire
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:53 PM

    @Andrej. Going by your name, it would appear that you are also a minority in this country. If we allow the bigoted right to have their way, ingraining intolerance into our society, who is to say you wouldn’t be the next target of their ire?

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:55 PM

    Andrej is just a TROLL! IGNORE HIM!

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    Mute John Ralph
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:58 PM

    Well if we adopted that stance Andrzej, why should we continue to listen to any minorities? Maybe Ireland should bring in a law to not allow citizens move freely into our country? That, however, is unfair and draconian. As are the current laws re marriage. Marriage is an ancient tradition which doesn’t stem from the Catholic church, they have adopted it and should not have a strangle-hold on it. We are citizens in our own right with our own needs and shouldn’t have to be made feel like second class citizens. Homosexuality has always been present and the need for some to ignore it and trivialise it won’t make it disappear.

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    Mute Andrzej Kubiz
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:00 PM

    Tunewire, race is not something we can choose. Our partners are something we can choose. As Trainspotting said, “choose life, choose marriage between man and woman”.

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    Mute Andrzej Kubiz
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:10 PM

    John Ralph, if Ireland was smart then it would also stop minority groups entering its country unless they can add to it. I say that as a Pole who has lived here for 10 years. I only put up with this country because I know I can have an easy life here. I haven’t worked in four years. I have a house mostly paid for by your government. I get money for free every week. All my friends also take advantage of your soft laws. It’s too late for Ireland to stop people taking advantage of it, but at least don’t ruin it for me by insulting my religon with same sex marriage.

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:11 PM

    That hit a nerve didnt it Andrzejk ! But you are a troll, conning on the Internet preaching about a topic that doesn’t actually affect you, calling me a piggy….I mean seriously, are you 5 years old?
    Construct an argument, convince people why you are right instead of just spouting bullshit!
    But this little piggy fag will be allows to marry in the future if I so wish! So up yours!

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    Mute Andrzej Kubiz
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:13 PM

    Tony, I think you can get help for your problem. Now run along….

    35
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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:15 PM

    You’re a disgrace to the polish community in Ireland! You’re offensive posts and profile have been reported and captured and I will be forwarding them to relevant welfare departments!

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    Mute Jody
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:15 PM

    Andrzej, I actually pity you :(

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    Mute Marc Anthony Power
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:18 PM

    andrez

    There may be more medival leaning societies in the world that are in line with your way of thinking…..or not thinking…..may I suggest that you move there as you seem very out of step with the majority way of thinking in todays “catholic”Ireland….yes you are right that many of us profess to being catholic but your interpretation of this would be more in line with a less progressive time in or history

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    Mute Shanti Om
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:18 PM

    Andrezj
    Keep your religion out of our laws. Catholicism is hypocrisy from the top down. Whatever happened to do unto others as you would have them do to you, love your brother? Jesus had a pretty close relationship with one of his disciples – the one he told Mary to take as her son.. He hung around with 12 guys all the time and never said a word against homosexuality – ever consider that he may have leaned that way himself?

    The Pope and all his Vatican buddies are the exact description of the Pharisees – they pray to be seen to pray, they undertake their martyrs sacrifice to be seen to – but they practice lawlessness..

    If you wanna pick and choose bits of your faith to follow then you aren’t a true believer, you are a hypocrite – and your lord will say he never knew you when you reach the pearly gates..

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    Mute TuneWire
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:19 PM

    @Andrzej The sad thing is, I don’t think you are a troll, I have met people like you before who genuinely possess these Dark Age beliefs. If you think that sexuality is something that can be turned on and off like a switch, then I suggest looking beyond a celibate middle aged man for your information on the matter.

    BTW nice work misquoting Irivine Welsh both literally and metaphorically. Of all the authors out there, I seriously doubt this one would be aligned with your particular brand of hatefilled discrimination.

    The one point I think you should take from this though is….. If people choose to engage in consenting acts which have no bearning whatsoever on YOUR rights, YOUR freedoms etc. then stop being so bloody selfish, forcing your beliefs on them and let them be.

    Simple, yes?

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    Mute Andrzej Kubiz
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:23 PM

    Thanks for that Tony. Luckily, I don’t make the laws and it isn’t a requirement of social welfare payments to actually respect the country you are living in. I just take the benefits I am entitled to. If you are a tax payer then thanks very much. If you’re not then I guess you are doing the same. Have a nice life. (unmarried life)

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    Mute Aaron t
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:26 PM

    Andrej are you even from Ireland??? If not then you should keep your mouth shut bout our affairs and you can go back to your country and voice your opinion there.

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    Mute Stephen Murphy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:33 PM

    They are man made rules, the church and religion was created by man. Man has been wrong so many times, about many things. Man and Woman existed before Religion, what was the set up then? If you can find the time to use Religion, to be prejudiced against others. Then you are an ignorant and hateful person, live and let live. A Statistic only shows whats on paper, how many are truely catholic today. Get on with your life, don’t concern yourself how others live theirs!

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    Mute Mark Downes
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:35 PM

    Adrej makes it blindingly obvious that he’s just a troll – why else would he bring up totally unrelated welfare scrounging? He gets off on the reactions he gets and probably isn’t even Polish, much less on welfare. The best way to oppose people like this is to ignore them.

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    Mute Krystian Brzezowski
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:46 PM

    @Andrzej as a fellow Pole i can say that you should go back to Poland. This country can’t be so screwed by such a narrow minded people like yourself. It is a shame that you left Poland and are taking advantage of Irish system. Living on the dole is clearly your life’s achievement. Go on and live in your crazy catholic world. It is making me sick.

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    Mute Mjhint
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:51 PM

    Some interesting news for people claiming this is a catholic country. In a recent poll last december Ireland is one of the least religious countries in the world. 47% describe themselves as religious. So for our polska friend its not looking good for your kids when they start having same sex relationships what will you do & by the way homosexual relationships are not illegal here. Off to the Russian federation with you for that protection. Oh I forgot they dont like the poles there. Anyway my advise is to our polish friend is, you cant knock it til ya try it.

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    Mute Marc MacFionnbarr
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    Aug 13th 2012, 1:02 AM

    @ Andrzej Kubiz. Ireland isn’t a Catholic country. It’s a secular country that has a majority Catholic population.

    Love doesn’t discriminate.
    Unlike you, it sees the beauty in a person regardless of appearance.

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    Mute Mark Power
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    Aug 13th 2012, 12:26 PM

    Andrzej
    You have been trolling. First about Irish claiming disability and now this. Get back under your bridge troll. I think I hear the three billy goat gruff coming

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    Mute Barry
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:09 PM

    Can we just vote on this issue already, we know its going to be a yes vote because thankfully Ireland has mostly moved on from being ruled by the catholic church nonsense.

    Of course some backward people are afraid of a yes vote but hard luck, thankfully these people are not in control anymore.

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    Mute Marian Crowe
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:09 PM

    its crazy they have to fight for their rights, wake up bigots and deal with real issues of life and death all over the globe

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    Mute Cian Doherty
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:43 AM

    Are you a bloke?

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    Mute Abi Dennis
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:24 PM

    was sorry i couldnt be there! looks like a good turn out though!

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    Mute Tootrue left
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:19 PM

    Was in Stephens Gree with my family and heard the drummers on the march, so we walked out for a look, the little guy loved it. A great turn out for a worthy cause, well done to all involved!

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    Mute Louise Hannon Foto
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:04 PM

    Fabulous event and I’d like to thank everyone for their support for my speech..If Marriage Equality came in tomorrow Transgender partners would not have to divorce in order to gain legal recognition. Something that no human being should be asked to do… choose between their Marriage /Civil Partnership and their birth certificatre and legal recognition by the Irish state.

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    Mute Ciara Lennon
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:03 AM

    Your speech was really fantastic Louise :) Truely inspirational :)

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    Mute Fiachra KellyMcElroy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:02 PM

    Sad that people still oppose marriage equality, but I am still confident that if this goes to a referendum it would pass overwhelmingly, and hopefull adoption rights too. The Catholic Church’s control of this country is over, even with the census figures – hopefully from that we can become a more liberal and progressive society.

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    Mute Auntie Dote
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:44 PM

    Equality of treatment is a civil right. Rights should never be subject to a vote. It is the protection of human rights that prevents any democracy from becoming a majoritarian tyranny.

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    Mute Damien Kelly
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    Aug 12th 2012, 11:42 PM

    Already married to my Dutch husband. The world’s stilling turning as far as I know.

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    Mute Adam Long
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:21 PM

    A great show of support calling for this State to finally embrace full equality and lift the archaic ban on same-sex couples entering civil marriage.

    With a fast emerging political consensus reflecting the strong support marriage equality enjoys among the Irish public (73% according to the latest poll), it is to be hoped that equality will prevail sooner rather than later. Certainly those of us in the LGBT community and our many straight allies will continue fighting until such an outcome is achieved.

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    Mute Mick Collins
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:29 PM

    Your straight alleys?

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    Mute Doug Mulholland
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:54 PM

    Great event and great turnout by the looks of things – sorry i missed it this year!

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    Mute Amy Mc Elroy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:09 PM

    Andrej you deserve to be deported!! Cop the hell on!!!

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    Mute Themanwithnoplan2012
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    Aug 12th 2012, 11:07 PM

    Ps i also hate this tolerant society lark. it implies certain groups are doing something wrong but we tolerate it. the gay community are doing nothing wrong. there is nothing for the rest of us to be tolerant of

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    Mute Mick Collins
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:34 PM

    Let’s get this issue bang to rights.
    The State recently granted non heterosexuals the right to enter into a Civil Partnership as a means of expressing their lifelong commitment to each other as opposed to Marriage which was in a sense reserved for heterosexuals.
    The idea that two lesbians or homosexuals can exchange vows of commitment similar to mine is completely repugnant to me as they cannot reproduce and cannot nor should they be identified within the Constitution as the Family unit so critical to the survival of our species.
    Before anyone goes ballistic on my comments please accept that the arrangements or contracts or partnerships between consenting gay adults that the State recognises are not something with which I can find anything other than support but to seek equality between heterosexual marriage and homosexual commitments is a contradiction of everything natural and my rights.

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    Mute Mark Phillips
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:39 PM

    How is it a contradiction of your rights? Baffling.

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    Mute Auntie Dote
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:41 PM

    Pssst, Mick…… don’t look now but your bigotry is showing. Not good!

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    Mute Helen
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:42 PM

    What about my rights?

    113
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    Mute kingstown
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:43 PM

    @mick you must really the enlightening era of Charles McQuad. It’s sad that people like you are spreading your evil twisted morality to another generation.

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    Mute Wolfgang Schmitt
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:48 PM

    I think that you’ll find that with over 6 billion humans on this planet, survival of the species is no longer critical.

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    Mute barry
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:01 PM

    Mick Collins – if a couple marries and one partner is infertile, or they don’t want to have kids, do you object to that on the grounds that they cannot reproduce as that seems to be the crux of your problem here?

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    Mute Donal Murphy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:04 PM

    ‘The idea that two lesbians or homosexuals can exchange vows of commitment similar to mine is completely repugnant to me as they cannot reproduce and cannot nor should they be identified within the Constitution as the Family unit so critical to the survival of our species.’

    So also by your own logic then, any heterosexual couples should not be allowed to marry unless they plan on having children? Childless couples whether by choice or nature should have any marriage disolved/annuled because they are not contributing to the survival of our species? How very Charles Darwin of you!!!

    106
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    Mute Dee Gorman
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:01 PM

    So, Mick, if I, as a heterosexual, choose to get married but don’t have any kids, do you think that my marriage licence should be revoked? Do you want the state in everyone’s pockets or just the ones that you are overly-infatuated with?

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    Mute Eilish Deegan
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    Aug 12th 2012, 11:51 PM

    So really the over 50 ies (heterosexual) shouldnt get married either as they can’t ( or hopefully)don’t want to either

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    Mute Marc MacFionnbarr
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    Aug 13th 2012, 1:06 AM

    A contradiction of everything natural? What’s it like in that cave of yours?

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    Mute Ciara Lennon
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    Aug 13th 2012, 1:57 AM

    Eh Lesbians OR homosexuals?? Time to look up the dictionary mate!! Lesbians are homosexuals!!! Yes we have been given the right to have civil partnerships but Civil Partnership does not Equal Civil Marriage. And as human beings we should be entitled to the same. Me marrying my girlfriend does not effect you or your rights or beliefs in anyway. As stated by so many people already, should a heterosexual couple who choose not to or are unable to have children not be allowed to marry because they will not be contributing to the “survival of the species”? We are by far the dominant species on this planet and until the day mother nature decides she doesnt want us here anymore we will continue as such regardless of whether same sex couples marry or not. So please take ur 1960′s idea’s climb up to the top of the empire state building, beat on your un evolved monkey chest and jump off

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    Mute Will
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:11 PM

    Journal.ie has become an out-and-out troll haven, it’s worse than below-the-line on a John Waters article.

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:27 PM

    Couldn’t agree more!
    It’s a safe haven for the worst of the Irish!

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    Mute John Ryan
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    Aug 13th 2012, 6:55 AM

    Totally agree with you. I can’t stand these idealistic liberals!

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    Mute Ann Murphy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:56 PM

    really can’t see why people still have a problem with gay marriage is it going to affect their life no is the world going to fall off its axis no is it going to make a mockery of the institute of marriage no so why is there still a lot of people having problems live your own life and let everyone else get on with theirs

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    Mute Margaret Kennedy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:05 PM

    in support of equality…i love the coloured cards with just the word ‘equal’ simple eh? could apply to disabled people too.

    there are some groups where the majority think they just got the right to pontificate on what constitutes so called ‘normal’ ways of living. look at those ‘normal’ people and hey….lots of weird stuff…

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    Mute Matt Donovan
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:33 PM

    Gay marriage? Sure why not? Why should they be happy forever…

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    Mute Celtic Lady
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:41 PM

    This issue was debated exhaustively on the journal many many times. Are we doing it again ????

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    Mute Abi Dennis
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:57 PM

    no they’re reporting on an event that took place today on something that is quite topical

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    Mute Adam Long
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:25 PM

    Yes, and the debate will continue until a section of our society are afforded the full and equal rights we are entitled to as citizens.

    In the meantime, if you find such a debate off putting, no one is forcing you to take part in it.

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    Mute R⊕B
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    Aug 13th 2012, 1:29 AM

    It was AWESOME to be amongst so many proud and defiant LGBTQ people, friends and family today to address this civil rights issue. Its time for the irish government to embrace marriage equality. NOW!

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    Mute Gary Hogarty
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    Aug 13th 2012, 1:48 AM

    Nobody is against your civil rights. But if you take a look from a religious perpestive the bible starts with Adam and eve not Adam and Steve and also in the bible the lord tells man go forth and multiply. Now I’m not religious but I now a bit about biology and the same sex couples cannot naturally bring a life into the world therefore homosexuality is not natural and the goverment has a duty to protect the true ideals of what marriage is about man meets woman they start a relationship possibly deciding to marry and bring children into the world to carry on a circle of life that’s been around for millions of years

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    Mute James Patrick Boyle
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:57 AM

    Ah here Gary, that argument is pathetic and has been brought up already in this thread. Saying that marriage is only for the purpose of a man and woman to pro-create means we should legislate for the de-legalisation of heterosexual marriages if one or both partners cannot conceive…..unless you think that’s silly, and infertile heterosexual couples should be exempt from the “bring children into the world to carry on a circle of life” rule. But same-sex couples shouldn’t be, because really, you’re a homophobe through and through. Don’t surgarcoat your homophobia, at least be honest about it

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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 13th 2012, 6:15 AM

    @Gary, you should watch that YouTube clip; that’s exactly what the bible says about marriage.

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    Mute Ciara Lennon
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:32 AM

    Eh Gary you swine. My little cousin, who was born into a heterosexual family is bullied every day in school because she brings a lunchbox in. A friends child was kicked down a flight of stairs because some kids didnt like how she was wearing her hair. On the other hand I have homosexual friends whos son is the captain of his soccer team and is getting all A’s in all honours subjects in school and who wants to be a barrister when hes finished school. I also have homosexual friends whos 6 yr old son is already excelling in school and who gets on with all the kids in his class and has no issues with bullies. So please dont stand behind the argument that homosexual couples having kids is not healthy for the child because you will not win. As for the speech about God saying go forth and multiply?? U might want to go back and have a read through your bible. Adam and Eve had 2 sons. How could they further multiply? Well because one son killed the other son and then had sex with his mother. So is that ok?? Is it ok to sleep with your mother as long as your not the same sex as her?? ope onto urself ya spa

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    Mute Henry chinaski
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:34 PM

    Yawn…..

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    Mute Petr Tarasov
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:56 PM

    Yes, civil rights and equality – BORRRRRRing.

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    Mute Darren Delaney
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:46 PM

    This is getting boring they are always whinging. GET A LIFE!!!!

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    Mute Sean Herbert
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:52 PM

    Darren – what an ignorant tosser – you need a life if the thought equality bothers you so much.

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    Mute Darren Delaney
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:56 PM

    Thats great Sean you resort to name calling. GROW UP!!!!

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    Mute Petr Tarasov
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:57 PM

    Yeah and what was that Rosa Parks wan doing making a big fuss on that bus?

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 7:59 PM

    Darren, you always jump in on the gay debate with stupid comments. Are you that insecure about yourself?

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    Mute Sean Herbert
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:06 PM

    Darren – the CAPS, overuse of exclamation marks in your posts, Ferrari avatar, homophobic sentiments, telling people to “Get a Life” and “Grow Up” all reflect well on what a smart individual you must be – I’d say you have a tremendous aptitude and are a real winner. Keep reaching for those stars!

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    Mute Shanti Om
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:22 PM

    Ah Darren, take a deep breath, be honest with yourself.. Coming out is the hardest part, you’d be surprised just how much support you will actually receive from those who truly love you – the ones who don’t you’re better off without..

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    Mute Mark Downes
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:40 PM

    Never too boring for you to jump in though, is it Darren? Clearly you’re one of the people who’s least bored by the topic.

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    Mute Páid Ó Donnchú
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:36 PM

    There already is ‘marriage equality’. You need one man and one woman. But maybe this agnostic socialist is just a ‘bigot’.

    As for a referendum, bring it on, but be careful – it won’t be conducted by counting thumbs on an extreme liberal opinion website.

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 8:44 PM

    Hang on. As someone who recognises yourself as agnostic how can you define marriage as one man and one woman?????

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    Mute Petr Tarasov
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:00 PM

    Páid

    You’re no socialist.

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    Mute Tootrue left
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:21 PM

    Funny sort of socialist that bitches about ‘extreme liberal opinions, eh paid??

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    Mute Jonathan Richards
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:46 PM

    Cuireann sé náire orm go bhfuil duine eicínt ó shaol na Gaeilge, mionlach ann fhéin, den tuairim dhochreidte is chun cúil sin.

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    Mute Themanwithnoplan2012
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    Aug 12th 2012, 11:01 PM

    how about we stop upholding arbitary rules and let people marry who they want to marry and not make them feel like subhumans while there doing it. everyones just tryin to live there live out there. Some people just need to evolve. ye are the equivalent of those who advocted shunning unmarried pregnant women and sending them off to laundry schools 40 yrs ago. Gay rights are human rights. simple

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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 13th 2012, 12:41 AM

    To answer that question: yes, I think you are a bigot.

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    Mute Dave Hammond
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:02 AM

    Some people don’t want to look at things from a religious perspective thank you very much , and stop pontificating about the governments duty to protect as if allowing gay people marrying will in any way stop the natural continuation of the circle of life , ( by the way government belongs to everyone not just heterosexuals ) seriously can you not see how illogical you are being , allowing gay people to marry has NO EFFECT on how heterosexuals will continue to live , is that too difficult for you to understand ?

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    Mute Gary Hogarty
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:14 AM

    What if same sex marriage is allowed what does society do when a same sex couple decides that they should be allowed to adopt children .Should this be allowed given that bullying takes place in school being a child in a same sex home would only draw attention to a child and what if a teenager has doubts about their sexuality and think that because their parents are gay that is right for them ? This is not about marriage it is about the issues that would arise in the future and if you read what I wrote I used the bible as a reference and quoted that I am not religious

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    Mute James Patrick Boyle
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    Aug 13th 2012, 3:02 AM

    Are you suggesting children of straight couples are NEVER bullied because they’re straight? Um, it just so happens bullying can and still happens based on their parents job, social class, accent, car they drive, lack (or surplus) of income, etc. If a child had gay parents, that child is equally going to be bullied or not. It’s probably the likes of your children who are afraid of gay people who will bully the children of gay parents.

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    Mute Dave Hammond
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:37 AM

    I read what you wrote very clearly , and I pointed out that I and many people are not religious so let’s not look at things from a religious perspective.! The issue is about equality and about allowing gay people to marry ,bringing in religion , bullying , or some notion that teenagers that have doubts about sexuality might somehow turn gay because they might think it is right for them !! You display an incredible lack of understanding about sexuality and the fear mingering is just a distraction from the main point, people are born gay and should be allowed to marry other gay people, again this has NO EFFECT on the heterosexual population whatsoever.

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    Mute Marc McCabe
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:29 AM

    Gary, I had a lot to say to you about your 2 dimensional perspective of reality and decided I’m too tired to bother reasoning with you. I feel it must be a matter of emotional intelligence or the lack thereof at this stage of the game when it comes to affording all people the same dignities in this temporary world.

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    Mute Dave Cully
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    Aug 13th 2012, 2:56 AM

    Gary. First off religion is a load of old cobblers. Second, if I’m not mistaken a gay single person can adopt a child, however a gay couple cannot adopt. Wheres the logic in that. It doesn’t effect your life so let them at it.

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    Mute Sean O Ceallaigh
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:32 PM

    A lot of the intolerance above is typical of what passes as liberalism in this country ie if you don’t agree with me you have to be a bigot. Heterosexual relationships play a vastly more important role in society than homosexual ones because the former is noticeably more successful at reproduction than the latter. Therefore they’re not equal and treating one differently from the other isn’t necessarily prejudice but just an acknowledgment of that fact. We live in a tolerant society but that doesn’t mean we have to pretend things are equal when they’re clearly not. I’ll vote no to homosexual marriage as an acknowledgement of that.

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:07 PM

    So you don’t believe in equal rights?

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    Mute Sean Herbert
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:23 PM

    “treating one differently from the other isn’t necessarily prejudice”

    It is. You have really twisted logic there.

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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:39 PM

    It’s actually us, the heterosexuals fault; we keep on having gay babies… :-))

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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:39 PM

    It’s actually us, the heterosexuals fault; we keep on having gay babies… :-))

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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:41 PM

    It’s actually our, the heterosexuals fault; we keep on having gay babies… :-))

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    Mute Mark Downes
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    Aug 13th 2012, 12:01 AM

    The intolerance you’re talking about is intolerance of intolerance, which is a good thing. It’s exactly the kind of intolerance we need.

    Your reasoning is fallacious. Many heterosexual relationships do not produce children. Half of all gay relationships are quite capable of producing children, thanks to IVF. If the ability of both partners to reproduce is to be a prerequisite for marriage, then infertile heterosexual couples shouldn’t be allowed to marry. Be honest. Which do you think is more crazy? allowing gay people to marry or forbidding infertile couples from marrying? Because you can’t have it both ways and call it “equal”.

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    Mute Martin Gallagher
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:38 PM

    Andrej, thank you for your comments. Your the only one making sense,it seems in Ireland if you stand up for marriage between a man and women you will be demonized for doing so. Some of the people here asking you to be deported for speaking your mind haven’t got a clue.What about kicking the Irish out of the Likes of England for claiming the dole?

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    Mute Petr Tarasov
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:43 PM

    If you are against equality, you’ll be called on it. That’s true.

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    Mute Kenneth Sheehy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:05 PM

    Martin- please re-read some of His comments. He went on to criticise the state, the system and everything else. That is why people spoke like that to him. It was not over his beliefs. He is entitled to belief what he likes, why wouldn’t he be? This is not the USSR, where minorities were persecuted and forced to live in secret, or Nazi Germany where ethnic groups were wiped out for being different. Also, in case you haven’t noticed his belief, while being at the heart of our current system, is no longer shared by the majority of people in this, and many other, states. We are moving toward equality, whether you support it or not. The church can have its marriage laws, and the state can develop a more inclusive understanding of the meaning of the union. Nobody is challenging anybody’s belief in God, Allah, Buddha, Thor or whoever. Why would they? Religion and state are separated by a world of differences, and so will be marriage laws and our understanding of marriage. The goal is not to challenge the Christian act of marriage, but to finally bring equality to people. Burying your head in the sand and pretending it won’t happen is bad for your mental health, in the long run. I’d suggest you try and get to know some gay people and their partners. You might be surprised to learn they are not perverts or bogey men, just people looking for the same marriage rights as the rest of us.

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    Mute Tony Stanley
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:09 PM

    Martin, that fella you’re supporting is taking the piss out of you also!!!!! I suggest you read all of his posts!

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    Mute Billy Flynn
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    Aug 12th 2012, 11:48 PM

    If “your” going to make a comment Martin, can I at least ask that “your” have at least the most rudimentary knowledge of the English language in order to know that “your” is in fact “you’re”…..man, where were you educated? Clearly an uncultured oaf, hence the bigoted vitriol spills forth

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    Mute Annmarie Evans
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    Aug 13th 2012, 3:48 AM

    Who gives a feck about religion we should just do what we want to? Why blight what we have in earth for an uncertainty somewhere else

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    Mute Donal Murphy
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    Aug 12th 2012, 9:45 PM
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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 12th 2012, 10:28 PM

    That is a brilliant clip!!! :-))

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    Mute Shoe lady
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    Aug 13th 2012, 11:17 AM

    Interesting how naive/forgetful some people are. While they extol the virtues of a man and woman being the only true combination for marriage, they overlook that up until recently, it was only a certain type of man and woman who were seen as acceptable.

    Marrying a different race, colour or creed was reviled by some and obstructed by many. Those who married an ‘outsider’ had to fight to have his/her family protected from subsequent abuse and discrimination. And in the Catholic church, the marriage had conditions attached – conversion, raising the children Catholic, marrying at a side altar early in the morning, and some Protestant brides being told they could only wear a mid length dress

    Anyone who wants to stand in front of their family and friends to pledge commitment to the one they love is entitled to be married. While not perfect, Civil Partnership has been a massive step for this society. And it is on that preliminary base I hope to see same sex marriage introduced – and soon!

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    Mute Gary Hogarty
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    Aug 13th 2012, 12:58 AM

    Where does the madness stop same sex couples are not the same as straight couples. They are a against the natural order to creation. And what do we allow next do they get the right to adopt children because they are allowed to marry and that’s the next step. Childhood is hard enough without the extra pressure on a child that is being reared in a same sex couple would bring. Stop and think .

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    Mute Mark Vieregge
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    Aug 13th 2012, 6:13 AM

    Thought about it and still think that gays should have equal rights! :-)
    Remove the “man and woman” part and replace it with individuals I say.

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    Mute Stephen McMahon
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    Aug 12th 2012, 11:53 PM

    All for gay marriage. Looked at the pics, some of the marchers were not exactly blowing stereotypes out of the water! It does surprise me why so many people on the gay rights side, which again I do agree with, seem to perpetuate those old stereotypes. Butch women, overly effeminate men etc…

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    Mute Petr Tarasov
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    Aug 13th 2012, 6:28 AM

    Lots of people live up to stereotypes. You look like something out of Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure for example.

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    Mute Stephen McMahon
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    Aug 13th 2012, 9:30 AM

    Its Silent Bob actually! From Clerks and Mallats and Jay and Silent Bob strike back. Watch the first 2, great movies, save yourself a wasted few hours and avoid the third! I was at a gay wedding of a good friend about 2 months ago and once again I just wanna state I am very pro gay marriage and would happily and actively support it. I just think the overly flamboyant sterotypes upsets certain sections of society so therefore it is not helping their own cause. Just my opinion.

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    Mute ponythegringo
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    Aug 13th 2012, 9:36 AM

    Am I the only one who thinks marriage is overrated ? If you are happy while not being married then don’t imagine you will be happier if you get married. Having said that if you and your partner , whatever relationship you’re in, are just simply crazy ape head over heels in love then go for it ! And best of luck !

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    Mute Brendan Roche
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    Aug 13th 2012, 12:48 AM

    What I’m seeing here in this argument is that white heterosexual men have no voice. Live and let live I say

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    Mute Ned stark
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    Aug 13th 2012, 10:03 AM

    Believing you’re better or more deserving of rights of privileges than someone else simply because you were born slightly different to them is an attitude reminiscent of Nazi Germany.

    There are some truly vile attitudes on display in these comments but not to be unexpected from a community regarded as the dregs of Irish society.

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    Mute Mikey Faulkner
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    Aug 14th 2012, 11:46 AM

    Result of marriage equality: gays get married.

    Get over yourselves, homophobes.

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    Mute Tom Newell
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    Aug 13th 2012, 10:49 AM

    marriage is one persons road to a prison sentence for life and financial ruin dunno why so many are fighting for it

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    Mute David CJ Conroy
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    Aug 13th 2012, 9:47 AM

    I find it very difficult to understand the logic behind homosexual marriage for several reasons. Traditional marriage has always had a special place in societies around the world for a few thousand years. Marriage between a man and woman has and should maintain special status because it is child centred not adult centred. The best possible option is for a child to be raised by their natural loving married mother and father. Bringing in homosexual marriage is a huge social experiment that will have a very bad effect on the children of the future.

    A child always has a mother and father, this is natural and this is the best possible place for a child to be reared. The LGBT lobby is not campaigning to make society a more stable place but to place the wants of adults and adult freedom above the needs and welfare of children and society.

    If you argue that it doesn’t matter if a child has a mother and father or two mothers or two fathers then you are essentially saying that men and women bring nothing unique to the table of parenthood. This cannot be true.
    I also think that if you agree with the above, then it surely follows that if men and women are not distinctively different, then it doesn’t matter to try and hire men and women as an employer. An employer could choose to hire only men or only women because, according to LGBT, it’s not the gender that matters its the quality of the relationship or using my example in the workplace, the quality of work.

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    Mute Dave Cully
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    Aug 13th 2012, 10:48 AM

    David, are you actually saying that a child will be loved more, or grow up a better person because they have a mother AND father. I find that hard to believe. It’s quite insulting to people who have grown up in single parent households.

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    Mute Mike Louw
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    Aug 14th 2012, 10:10 PM

    Personally, I think the church(es) should be allowed to marry or not marry whomever they please. The state and church should be separate; let the latter do what they will, but don’t let them influence our constitution or our laws. I’m supporting equality with regard to the civil rights and responsibilities of two people who wish to live their lives together. Equality in terms of migration rights, inheritance rights, insurance rights, tax rights, state support rights if required, adoption rights, child support rights etc etc etc. The current civil partnership legislation does NOT provide civil rights equivalent to heterosexual marriage (although it’s a step in the right direction…). With reference to children allegedly needing both a female and a male parent, I would be quite prepared to change my mind about this if someone could refer me to a peer-reviewed scientific study showing that children of heterosexual couples have better outcomes later in life than those of same-sex couples. I’ve yet to see one.

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    Mute Marc MacFionnbarr
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    Aug 14th 2012, 2:17 PM

    Open-mindedness, fairness etc. – WIN
    Bigotry…………………………………. – LOSE

    Hope this clears up some of the religious excuses.

    https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=506716659357792&set=a.223098324386295.105971.205344452828349&type=1&relevant_count=1

    If this doesn’t open up go to George Takei’s page on Facebook and scroll down a small bit on his timeline.

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    Mute medred
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    Aug 13th 2012, 5:30 PM

    Who gives a shit who marries who? If you don’t like it then you don’t like but you can’t interfere with others lives because you think you know better.

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