The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said he plans to legislate for same-sex partnerships "at the earliest possible date" in the lifetime of this Government.
He said the Government was committed to providing a more supportive and secure legal environment for same-sex couples.
"Taking into account the Options Paper prepared by the Colley Group, and the pending Supreme Court case, we will legislate for civil partnerships at the earliest possible date in the lifetime of this Government."
Mr Ahern was speaking as he officially opened the refurbished Outhouse, the gay community resource centre in Dublin's Capel Street.
Outhouse manager Louise Tierney said the gay community would like the legal recognition of same-sex relationships within the coming year, but said it would be "unacceptable" if it did not take place within the lifetime of this Dáil. "The lack of recognition of same-sex relationships is a barrier to real equality. It engenders discrimination and puts gay people at distinct disadvantage when it comes to basic rights around inheritance," she said.
Monica Hynds, chairwoman of Outhouse, said this was "a pivotal time" for the centre. The one-stop shop for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gendered people attracts 1,000 people every week looking for information and support.
"Despite the positive changes in society, many in the community still grapple with low self-esteem, isolation and suicidal ideation," Ms Hynds said.
Outhouse has recently seen a major increase in the number of immigrants using its services, according to its manager.
She pointed out that discrimination against gay people was common in some EU member states and she urged all politicians to encourage greater tolerance of diversity within the EU.
