Research into conversion practices published

On 17 February, I announced the publication of the report ‘An Exploration of Conversion Therapy practices in Ireland’, conducted by a team from the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, on behalf of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. The findings in the report detail why a ban on pseudo-scientific conversion practices is absolutely necessary.

Conversion practices are cruel processes, rooted in shame and stigma, which seek to change a person’s sexual orientation or their gender identity. The impact of which can have long-lasting harmful consequences on a person, especially those who are subjected to such dangerous practices at a young age.

Every LGBTI+ person deserves to feel safe from harm in Ireland, be accepted for who they are, and be supported to live full and equal lives. That is why the government is moving to introduce a ban on conversion practices, which seek to further prejudice and suppress the lives of LGBTI+ people, and place shame on our difference.

I welcome the research which represents an important step towards legislating for a ban on conversion practices. Legislating to prohibit conversion practices is a continuance of the State’s assertion of the equal dignity of LGBTI+ persons and is a priority for me.

You can access the report by clicking on the following: Access the report.