DUBLIN, Ireland, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- The Irish government is considering a law that could result in the nation recognizing same-sex unions, including those from other countries.
Senior sources have said that if the civil partnership proposal is implemented, it could mean that any same-sex unions that took place outside Ireland would automatically be legally recognized by the government, The Irish Times said Saturday.
Gay and Lesbian Equality Network director Brian Sheehan said the measure would be a dream come true for many gays and lesbians.
"People want to make financial and legal commitments to each other and to have them recognized in law, even if it isn't recognized in Irish law yet," Sheehan said. "But couples also want to make a very public statement of their commitment towards each other."
The Times said the plan would allow gay and lesbian couples nearly identical rights to those of married couples.
