Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 May 2026
319. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the progress made to introduce legislation banning conversion therapy as committed to in the programme for Government; when she last discussed the matter with the Attorney General; if she had discussed the matter with any European counterparts who have successfully introduced such laws; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38646/26]
View answerLegislating for the prohibition of conversion practice is a commitment in the Programme for Government, ‘Securing Ireland’s Future’, and in line with public policy, that asserts the equal dignity of LGBTIQ+ people.
The proposed legislation to ban conversion practices raises both complex and sensitive policy and legal questions. The Department is carefully working through the key policy and legal principles that will underpin the legislation to ensure that individuals are protected from harmful conversion practices while the necessary and appropriate services for those with concerns in areas of sexual orientation and gender identity are not affected.
Officials continue to engage with the Office of the Attorney General on the matter. In addition, this Department is keeping developments in other European jurisdictions under review and has had regard to international experience.
