Dublin: Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has defended Minister Roderic O’Gorman against calls for resignation following the referendum defeat and the leak of the Attorney General’s legal advice. Despite Varadkar’s supportive stance, his comments on the referendum were widely criticised for their controversial nature and negative impact. Throughout the referendum period, Varadkar’s responses to criticism often sparked further controversy and debate.
Both the government and Varadkar have expressed full confidence in Minister O’Gorman, who himself has stated his lack of intention to resign in the face of defeat. However, opposition parties have demanded O’Gorman’s resignation, holding him responsible for the referendum’s dismal outcome.
Acknowledging the significant defeat, Varadkar referenced former Prime Minister Enda Kenny’s remarks in 2013 following the rejection of the Senate referendum, where voters sent a clear message to the government. The government has accepted responsibility for the loss.
The leak of the Attorney General’s legal advice on immigration and care issues on the eve of the referendum stirred further controversy. Both Varadkar and Minister O’Gorman expressed dissatisfaction with the incident, with Varadkar hinting at potential reconsideration of publishing such advice in the future.
While Minister O’Gorman lamented the leak of partial legal advice, he assured that an investigation into the matter would take place. Senator Michael McDowell speculated that the leak originated within the government to bolster support for the CARE referendum but ultimately backfired. Fine Gael Senator Regina Doherty suggested an ulterior motive behind the leak.
Varadkar and O’Gorman asserted that the AG’s advice supported the government’s Yes campaign arguments. The AG’s opinion on the strength of certain wording, particularly regarding “strive,” was highlighted by Varadkar.
O’Gorman clarified that the AG’s advice suggested expanding durable relationships would unlikely significantly impact immigration, while cautioning against the inclusion of polygamous relationships under this ambit.
Addressing concerns over the family referendum’s potential impact on immigration decisions, Varadkar emphasised the AG’s view that the proposed wording on care would not substantially affect immigration law.
The uncertainty regarding how the Supreme Court might interpret various terms was noted by the AG, although Varadkar interpreted this as a broader issue beyond specific terminology.
Ultimately, the leak of the AG report, initially intended to aid Yes supporters, led to public backlash, particularly concerning the discussion of polygamy, resulting in a shift against the government.
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