MINISTER FOR CHILDREN and Youth Affairs Katherine Zappone has received her Seal of Office, a week after her cabinet colleagues.
Zappone’s official acceptance by President Michael D Higgins had been delayed following the death of her wife Anne Louise Gilligan last week, just hours after she was reappointed to the cabinet.
Zappone said that Ann Louise would be “immensely proud” as she received her Seal of Office today at Áras an Uachtaráin.
“Family, friends and colleagues have been hugely supportive in recent days – and I want to acknowledge and thank all who offered their sympathy.
“I am overwhelmed and deeply grateful by the outpouring of support.
“Ann Louise was a fearless campaigner and would want me to continue our work for equality, fairness and justice.”
Ann Louise Gilligan died last week following a short illness.
She and Zappone had been together since 1981.
The pair had strongly advocated for a Yes vote in the marriage equality referendum. Ahead of the vote, they released a video about how they had gone to Canada in 2003 to get married.
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