Eva OsborneGay and bisexual men will have their historical convictions relating to consensual same-sex activity disregarded under a new Government scheme. Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan secured Government approval for amendments to the Bill to enable the disregard of certain historical convictions relating to consensual same-sex activity, as committed to in the Programme for Government. Minister O’Callaghan said: “The Victorian-era laws that criminalised consensual sexual activity between men are now rightly recognised as a historical injustice. Speaking on behalf of Labour LGBTQ+, Joshua Ellul, said: “Today’s decision is a powerful affirmation of Ireland’s commitment to equality and restorative justice. "A disregard scheme will offer dignity, recognition, and practical justice to those who suffered under laws that should never have existed.”

Source: The Herald February 05, 2026 14:16 UTC