Stormont debates bill to criminalise conversion therapy, sparking unionist freedom-of-speech concerns
Stormont MLAs are weighing a private member’s bill that would punish conversion practices with up to two years in jail, while unionist members warn it may restrict free expression.
In the Northern Ireland Assembly, Alliance Party deputy leader Eóin Tennyson opened debate on his private member’s Conversion Practices (Criminalisation) Bill, which seeks up to two years’ imprisonment for anyone trying to change or suppress another’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Tennyson referenced survivor testimonies and described conversion practices as a lingering, harmful abuse. Unionist representatives, including Ulster Unionist leader Jon Burrows, opposed the bill, claiming existing criminal laws already address coercive acts and that the new measure could infringe on parental rights and free speech.
Outside the Parliament Buildings, Rainbow Project activist Alexa Moore led a rally urging lawmakers to protect LGBTQ+ citizens. The Assembly will later vote on advancing the bill to the committee stage, after which opponents could use a petition of concern to block its progress.
Why it matters
The bill could create the first legal protection against coercive conversion tactics in Northern Ireland.
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