O’Neill blasts ‘absolutely ridiculous’ questioning over gender

Michelle O’Neill has urged a unionist MLA to “show sensitivity” after he asked her if a woman can have a penis.

Ms O’Neill described the questioning from TUV MLA Timothy Gaston at the Northern Ireland Assembly as “absolutely ridiculous”.

Mr Gaston has repeatedly attempted to question the Sinn Fein First Minister about the definition of a woman, after a Supreme Court ruling that a woman is defined by biological sex under equalities law.

During ministerial question time, Mr Gaston said: “On a number of occasions both in this chamber and in committee, I have sought clarification from you in relation to biological reality, to which you refuse to answer.

“Let me put the matter to you more directly.

“As someone who holds office in a department with responsibility for equality, can you as First Minister clarify, can a woman have a penis?”

Ms O’Neill responded:  “That is absolutely ridiculous and you are making a show of yourself.

“You are fascinated by the definition of a woman, I think that says a lot about you.”

Mr Gaston repeated his question, pointing out that DUP leader Gavin Robinson had criticised those who “refuse to accept biological reality” in his weekend party conference speech.

Ms O’Neill said she would help Mr Gaston with a biology lesson.

She said: “I was born a biological baby girl, I grew into a teenager and I am now a fully-fledged woman.

“There are also trans women in our community.

“If woman can be supportive and inclusive of trans women then you should also.

“But I fear, like the trans community fear, all you are interested in is stoking up fear and tensions and hurt.

“Have a bit of sensitivity, have a bit of decency.”