Ex-DUP minister calls for marriage and abortion votes but says no to border poll

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A pro-life demonstration in Belfast.

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A former DUP health minister has called for controversial reforms to Northern Ireland's laws on abortion and same sex marriage to be put to a referendum. 

Jim Wells says both are 'moral issues' and shouldn't be decided by Westminster. 

MPs changed the laws surrounding the devolved issues last week in the absence of a functioning Stormont government. 

Some changes are immediate but abortions or same sex marriage ceremonies won't be available here until next year. 

However, Mr.Wells says other controversial issues such as Brexit and Irish unity should not be subject to similar referendums:

Meanwhile, an Irish senator says long-term planning and preparation are required for a united Ireland.

Mark Daly believes the Brexit crisis shows the unforeseen consequences of holding a referendum without proper preliminary steps.

Local lawyer Ciaran O'Hare who represents victims' and Brexit campaigner Raymond McCord is backing the call.

Mr. O'Hare says clarity is needed and the calling of a border poll should not be at the whim of the Secretary of State:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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