The Irish Civil Partnership Bill has cleared the first hurdle.
The Bill is expected to come before the Seanad within weeks after being passed by the Dáil last night.
It will extend marriage-like benefits to same sex couples in the areas of property, social welfare, succession, pension and tax.
Fianna Fail Senator Jim Walsh has long had reservations about the legislation.
“I think it’s important that the Constitution first of all recognises it, that we have to guard with special care the unique status of marriage” he said.
“I think there is a very good reason for that”.
“I think because of the….nature of marriage it’s essential that as an institution it’s supported and protected – and that must be reflected in the laws” he added.
