The Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group has welcomed a commitment from Tasmanian Greens leader and state Cabinet inister, Nick McKim, to re-introduce state same-sex marriage laws next week, but is disappointed Premier Bartlett has baulked at saying he supports marriage equality saying instead he doesn’t oppose it.
Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said he is hopeful Mr McKim’s Bills will be given serious consideration with the major parties allowing a conscience vote.
“As long as the law says same-sex couples can’t marry it sends out the message that our relationships are second rate”, Mr Croome said.
“While the civil partnership scheme we have in Tasmania is great for couples who don’t want to marry, it is not enough for those same-sex couples who do.”
Mr Croome said Mr Bartlett’s statement is a step forward but it is disappointing he still feels unable to endorse full legal equality for same-sex couples.
“With a majority of Australians, as well as the Tasmanian Labor Party state conference, in favour of reform, it is disappointing Bartlett can’t take a stronger stance in favour of equality.”
For a news report on McKim and Bartlett’s positions visit:
www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/11/07/3059387.htm
