By Cillian Sherlock, Press AssociationA junior minister urged the Government not to be “hiding” from debate during the divisive 1995 divorce referendum campaign, which passed by the slimmest of margins. Government files from 30 years ago made public by the National Archives of Ireland this weekend reveal details of government plans for the vote. The November 1995 referendum passed by 50.28 per cent to 49.72 per cent, leading to amendment of the Constitution to allow for divorce under certain conditions. “There is a possibility the secretariat of state may raise the matter with me directly at some stage. He said: “This Bill is exceptionally important and the government should not be seen to be hiding from debate on it.

Source: The Herald December 28, 2025 12:13 UTC