PROGRESS MADE on civil partnership reflected the profound social changes in Irish society, Labour TD John Lyons told the Dáil.

“In 1993 or 1994, the likes of me could technically have been locked up for being gay,” he said.

“It is brilliant that we have moved on. Many people outside the House feel the same way.”

Mr Lyons, who was elected for Dublin North West in the last general election, said he would open a pride event in the local youth facility in Ballymun today.

“In 2011, it is great that a deputy has been asked to attend a pride event, in this case an open-air concert held by a young people’s institution,” he added.

“This says something about how society is advancing in many corners, which is to be welcomed.”

Mr Lyons was speaking during the debate on the Finance No 3 Bill 2011, allowing registered civil partners the same treatment in matters of income tax, stamp duty, capital acquisitions tax, capital gains tax and VAT.

The Bill, which was introduced by Minister for Finance Michael Noonan and followed the Civil Partnership Act, was passed with the support of all sides of the House.

Mr Lyons, who said he was one of just two openly gay TDs, described the cross-party support as “heartening”, adding that he hoped it would continue on further issues relating to same-sex couples.

The tax changes, he said, gave couples in loving relationships certainty and security by recognising their commitment to each other.

“We are a progressive society and we all benefit from greater equality,” Mr Lyons added.

“The Bill, and the progress it recognises, makes a statement about our values and how we recognise diversity in society.” He said many people could walk tall again, feel equal and valued as first-class citizens.

“I look forward to future developments in this regard,” Mr Lyons added.

Dara Calleary (FF) said it was always easy to forget those who had made many great personal sacrifices in the pursuit of such legislation over the years.

Organisations such as Glen had worked long and hard to progress the agenda, mostly without credit.

“Those are the people who deserve to celebrate most and the thousands who are benefiting from their work owe them a great debt,” said Mr Calleary.

Jerry Buttimer (FG) said he had the pleasure of attending a civil partnership ceremony, which was memorable as well as personal, human and joyful.

When the Bill was passed into law, he added, the change would not be at the periphery of life but at its heart and at the core of human relationships.

“This equality will not be a distant image or aspiration but will be a bright and shining star in the lives of couples, be they same sex or opposite sex, and it will make an immeasurable difference to their lives,” he added.

Mr Buttimer said the Bill was “about the lives of people and about the way people are treated by the State, be they men or women, gay or straight”.

Pearse Doherty (SF) said the Bill’s passing would be another important step in a broader discussion taking place in society aimed at securing equal recognition for same-sex partners and families.

Mattie McGrath (Ind) said there had been a concern among farming families about being open to maintenance and property claims arising from the break-up of civil partnerships.

“Concerns remain regarding legal liabilities and the consequences for the 120,000 cohabiting couples who will find themselves in a legal web,” he added.