Greens continue fight for same sex rights
Thurs 8 May 08
“The ACT Labor Government has backed down on the fight to celebrate civil unions between same sex couples. One word from Kevin Rudd and they have backed off, before even putting him to the test” said Dr Foskey.
“I intend to introduce stand alone legislation that would recognise civil union ceremonies, after we pass the emasculated version of the ACT Government’s Civil Relationships Bill tonight.”
“Then, if Federal Labor doesn’t approve of the civil union ceremonies, it would have to break its own promise and take the formal step of disallowing it.”
“Prime Minister Rudd hasn’t told us yet why he won’t support civil union ceremonies, and I think we have the right to know.”
“I suspect the Prime Minister has made a deal with the conservative Christian groups. Perhaps it is to block the ACT’s planned civil unions in return for their silence when he removes discriminatory clauses from Commonwealth legislation."
“Many ACT residents are clearly very angry nonetheless. Within 4 days of the announcement that the ceremonial recognition would not go forward, I have been provided with a petition hosting 711 signatures.”
“I am not willing to back down on this fight, and ACT Labor Government shouldn’t be either,” said Dr Foskey.
