Debate contribution: Conversion Practices (Criminalisation) Bill: Second Stage

Debate contribution by Mr Gordon Lyons on 15 September 2026.

MLA: Mr Gordon Lyons
Party at the time: Democratic Unionist Party
Date: 15 September 2026
Type: Debate contribution (made as a minister)
Business: Private Members' Business
Heading: Conversion Practices (Criminalisation) Bill: Second Stage
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5707198

Text

I think that we also need to have a proper understanding of what Second Stage is. Yes, it is about the general principles of the Bill, but it does not just mean that we are being asked whether we are all agreed that we should have a Bill to ban conversion practices, conversion therapy or whatever it may be. The fundamental impact that this Bill will have is dependent on those definitions. I think that we have had a good exchange of views today, and I hope that the Member can see that we are being genuine. I say this regretfully, but I think that Nuala McAllister's contribution was ill-judged, because, I think, there are sincere concerns that we have on this side of the House.
This is where we should be debating those concerns. I hope that the Bill does not progress to Committee Stage, because I do not believe that it is workable, but the issues that we are raising at Second Stage will at least be on the radar of any Committee, whatever it may be, to look at, should the Bill progress.

186 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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