http://uk.news.yahoo.com/19122005/140/couple-s-thanks-queer-folk.html
The first same-sex “marriage” has taken place in an historic ceremony in Northern Ireland.Shannon Sickles and Grainne Close arrived at the courtyard of Belfast City Hall into the full glare of the waiting media.Around 30 protesters gathered at the front of the building to voice their displeasure at the union.
The couple were one of three taking part in civil ceremonies at City Hall today.
Before entering the building, Miss Close, who was wearing a black trouser suit, said: "We just want
to say that this is a very privileged position we are in this morning and for us this is about making a choice."
Her partner, Miss Sickles, who was wearing a white trouser suit, said: "This is about making a choice to have our civil rights acknowledged and protected and we could not be here without the hard work of many queer activists and many individuals from the queer community.
“We feel very privileged and blessed to be here doing this and look forward to having a wonderful day.”
Almost 700 gay “marriages” are due to take place across England and Wales on Wednesday when arrangements for the new civil partnerships come fully into operation.
But the registration period is shorter in Northern Ireland, allowing same-sex couples in the province to form civil partnerships from today.