family makeup

Ireland to keep , ‘sexist’ constitutional language about mother’s role

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Ireland to keep , ‘sexist’ constitutional language about mother’s role

Ireland was set to reject proposals to amend constitutional references to family makeup and “mother’s duties in the home,” marking a significant defeat for the government. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar described the referendum, coinciding with International Women’s Day, as an opportunity to remove outdated, sexist language. However, he acknowledged the defeat of the family and care amendments based on a respectable turnout. The proposals aimed to update Article 41 of the 1937 Irish constitution by broadening the definition of family and replacing language about a mother’s duties with a clause recognizing care by family members due to their bonds. This sparked debate over the state’s role in supporting carers. Official results were expected later that day.

Ireland looks set to reject constitutional changes

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Ireland looks set to reject constitutional changes

Ireland was expected to reject proposals to amend constitutional references regarding family structure and women’s roles in the home, based on early tallies from referendums. The votes, referred to as the family amendment and the care amendment, aimed to update Article 41 of the Irish constitution, which dates back to 1937. The first proposal sought to broaden the definition of family beyond marriage-based relationships, and the second aimed to replace outdated language about a mother’s duties with recognition of care provided by family members due to their bonds. Critics argued the changes would shift the responsibility of care to families rather than the state. The results were anticipated to be announced on the day following the vote, which coincided with International Women’s Day.