The report stage of the Civil Partnership Bill will take place in the Dáil tomorrow night between 5pm and 9 pm. (Amendments tabled for debate)

There is a liveblog available for commentary and you will be able to watch the debate on the liveblog or you can watch it by picking a stream from the Dáil here.

The past week has seen mildly frenetic activity in the papers and on radio from those opposing the bill (and not just opposing the lack of conscientious objection protection – this is homophobia is full swing) and those who support the bill and oppose the right of the Church/religious to interfere in secular matters.

We’ve even had an opinion piece from Angela Kerins, Chairperson of the Equality Authority today to support the bill and remind society that it’s a civil matter.

Mattie McGrath TD (just lost the FF whip) is blaming the Green’s for the legislation and saying that they have the run of the government. (His accusations of the Green Party bullying gave me a laugh – if they were so good at it maybe the bill would offer some protection to children’s and family rights)

No confirmation yet of when the Bill will reach the Seanad – Senator Dan Boyle confirmed to me tonight that bill will go before Seanad on July 13 – expect far more direct ire there as there are a number of opponents of the bill on both sides of the house – and they are far more likely to give their opinions and not just talk about florists, photographers and registrars.

Photos sent to me from a protest today outside the Dáil.

Are there activities planned by groups supporting the legislation tomorrow?  I know that GLEN are launching a document containing the Second Stage speeches at 1pm.   Any other press calls or celebrations?

If you want to go and watch in person in the public gallery to observe/support the debate – ring your local TD’s office and ask for tickets. (You can find the list here) The number of the Dáil switchboard is (01) 6183000.

UPDATE:
Senator Dan Boyle confirmed to me tonight that the bill will go before the Seanad on July 13th.