EXPLAINER: What you need to know about the upcoming referenda in March

Two upcoming referenda on March 8 have been at the forefront of political discussion in recent weeks as proposed changes to the Irish constitution are in voters hands.

The independent information campaign launched today, January 25, unveiling its information booklet that will be delivered to 2.3 million homes across the country.

The Commission has also launched its referendum website www.ElectoralCommission.ie/Referendums offering information on the 8 March votes and about voting.

But what are the proposed changes and how will they affect/alter the constitution?

The Bills proposed for two amendments to the Constitution will:

• Amend Article 41 of the Constitution to provide for a wider concept of Family; and
• Delete Article 41.2 of the Constitution to remove text on the role of women in the home, and insert a new Article 42B to recognise family care.

Family Amendment

The Thirty-Ninth Amendment of the Constitution (The Family) Bill 2023 proposes to amend Article 41.1.1 to insert the words “whether founded on marriage or on other durable relationships”.

It also proposes the deletion of the words “on which the Family is founded” from Article 41.3.1.

Care Amendment

The Fortieth Amendment of the Constitution (Care) Bill 2023 proposes to delete Article 41.2 from the Constitution and insert an Article 42B with the following wording:

‘The State recognises that the provision of care, by members of a family to one another by reason of the bonds that exist among them, gives to Society a support without which the common good cannot be achieved, and shall strive to support such provision.’

The vote will be held on March 8, International Women's Day.