Di-ve: AD pro equality for LGBT Rights

http://www.di-ve.com/news/ad-pro-equality-lgbt-rights
22.8.12 by Joanna Demarco editorial@di-ve.com

This afternoon, the Green Party, Alternattiva Demokratika met up with the Malta Gay Rights Movement (MGRM) to discuss the new social and family policies which promote equality in all aspects, irrespective of an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

AD Chairman Michael Briguglio asserted that “liberalism is a priority to us”, and expressed his party’s attitude in favour of marriage regardless of sexual orientation.

“Equality can only materialise by having one institution for both different-sex and same-sex couples. Recognition of same-sex couples in marriage would lead to the strengthening of the concept of the family”, he said.

AD hold the same attitude towards the current IVF debate, believing that one should not be discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation. “Gender minorities such as transgender persons should be protected against every form of discrimination and the Constitution should be amended to prohibit any form of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression”, he added.

“The concept of family in Malta has changed – we believe that social policy and civil legislation should change to adapt to other families other than the ‘traditional family’” said Angele Deguara, the AD Spokesperson for Social Policy and Civil Rights.

She went on to say that “when people want to adopt, sexual orientation should not be an issue, and single parents should also be allowed to adopt”. Mr Briguglio added that “we cannot act as though there is only one type of family”.

Gabi Calleja, representative of MGRM, agreed that “people tend to speak about same sex couples excluding the fact that some might be parents or may be wanting to become parents”.

She also informed the press that “LGB would not specifically require IVF, artificial insemination would be enough”, however, “the law completely bans this – sperm donation is an offence at this moment”.

Ruth Baldacchino, also representing the MGRM thanked AD for being “accepting” and “[taking] into consideration the live of transgender people in Malta”.

She concluded the press conference by stating that “the enforcement of this act would improve the lives of transgender people immensely”.