http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-31/opinions/maltese-values-within-the-eu-3048538113/
Thursday, 31 October 2013, 08:00 , by Therese Comodini Cachia
In the midst of a debate on a Civil Union Bill, let’s be clear from the outset on what role the EU plays in issues of social matters. The mantra that EU membership obliges the Maltese to depart from their values and social norms is incorrect.The EU does not have competence to oblige Malta to legalise abortion, to legislate in favour of same sex marriage, to legislate in favour of joint adoption by same sex couples, or to legislate in favour of euthanasia. These are only a few issues the decision for which falls squarely within our lap.
But today’s society is all about trying to strike a balance between legislative recognition of social and human situations and enshrined values. As citizens we are facing this reality and we need a strong representation on issues that affect social norms and values within the European Parliament. It is important that an MEP would first and foremost be aware of the jurisdiction that the EU has on these sensitive issues and secondly be able to suss out those proposals that may have an effect on the core values which are intrinsically interwoven in our Maltese social fabric.
Thursday, 31 October 2013
Malta Today: ‘No church has a monopoly on the truth’
Observers feel the non-debate on civil unions and gay adoptions is down
to an internal schism on how the Church should strategically handle
another legal challenge to its Magisterium so soon after the divorce
referendum.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/No-church-has-a-monopoly-on-the-truth-20131031
Thursday 31 October 2013 - 11:06 by Raphael Vassallo
Fr George Dalli: “Everybody is forgetting that the law as it stands today already allows adoption by single parents.”
A proposed bill on civil unions, which would permit adoption by same-sex couples, appears to be locked on a direct collision course with the authorities of the country's majority religion.
But not all within the Catholic Church are necessarily sorry to see the issue being discussed... even if some fear a repeat performance of the recent divorce referendum, which also served to expose the utmost limits of the institution's millennial hold on public opinion.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/No-church-has-a-monopoly-on-the-truth-20131031
Thursday 31 October 2013 - 11:06 by Raphael Vassallo
Fr George Dalli: “Everybody is forgetting that the law as it stands today already allows adoption by single parents.”
A proposed bill on civil unions, which would permit adoption by same-sex couples, appears to be locked on a direct collision course with the authorities of the country's majority religion.
But not all within the Catholic Church are necessarily sorry to see the issue being discussed... even if some fear a repeat performance of the recent divorce referendum, which also served to expose the utmost limits of the institution's millennial hold on public opinion.
Joseph Mizzi: Gays, Unjoni Civili u Adozzjoni
29.10.2013 [http://josephmizzi.blogspot.com/]
Hbieb,
Il-ligi tal-Unjoni Civili hi riflessjoni tal-qaghda spiritwali ta’ pajjizna. Filwaqt li l-Istat ghandu d-dmir li jhares id-drittijiet tac-cittadini kollha, ninkwieta li:
1. Iz-zwieg se jkun mnezza’ mit-tifsira unika tieghu.
2. It-tfal adottati minn koppja gay se jkunu mcahhda mill-imhabba ta’ omm jew ta’ missier.
Bhala pajjiz qed nitilfu l-valuri Nsara, u dan mhux b’kumbinazzjoni. Il-valuri Nsara jserrhu fuq il-Blata, l-Hallieq u s-Sid taghna, Gesu Kristu. Imma hafna Maltin warrbu ‘l Alla minn hajjithom. Minghajr pedament il-valuri jikkrollaw, kif qed naraw.
Hbieb,
Il-ligi tal-Unjoni Civili hi riflessjoni tal-qaghda spiritwali ta’ pajjizna. Filwaqt li l-Istat ghandu d-dmir li jhares id-drittijiet tac-cittadini kollha, ninkwieta li:
1. Iz-zwieg se jkun mnezza’ mit-tifsira unika tieghu.
2. It-tfal adottati minn koppja gay se jkunu mcahhda mill-imhabba ta’ omm jew ta’ missier.
Bhala pajjiz qed nitilfu l-valuri Nsara, u dan mhux b’kumbinazzjoni. Il-valuri Nsara jserrhu fuq il-Blata, l-Hallieq u s-Sid taghna, Gesu Kristu. Imma hafna Maltin warrbu ‘l Alla minn hajjithom. Minghajr pedament il-valuri jikkrollaw, kif qed naraw.
Times: Confusion in civil unions
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131029/opinion/Confusion-in-civil-unions.492379#.UnKVFHCsLD4
Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 00:01 by Austin Sammut
With the end of summer (or is it?) and the boring months with virtually nothing to write about, things have started bubbling again.
Let’s not go for the Budget yet. A bit early. But certainly one topic at the top of the agenda is this blessed Civil Union Bill.
Let me get straight to the point. This union is marriage and no less. The same rules of marriage apply – bigamy, divorce, separation, annulment, maintenance and so on. So why not just amend the existing Marriage Act and get on with it?
Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 00:01 by Austin Sammut
With the end of summer (or is it?) and the boring months with virtually nothing to write about, things have started bubbling again.
Let’s not go for the Budget yet. A bit early. But certainly one topic at the top of the agenda is this blessed Civil Union Bill.
Let me get straight to the point. This union is marriage and no less. The same rules of marriage apply – bigamy, divorce, separation, annulment, maintenance and so on. So why not just amend the existing Marriage Act and get on with it?
Times: Child rights trump all the others
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131029/letters/Child-rights-trump-all-the-others.492371?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=child-rights-trump-all-the-others#.UnKVGXCsLD4
Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 00:01 by Ray Azzopardi, Xemxija
It has been reported that Civil Liberties Minister Helena Dalli urged society “to compare the Civil Union Bill with civil, not Church marriage”.
Why are we giving two versions of marriage in order to suit our political interests? Why don’t we define marriage before we decide whether the union between homosexuals should be considered at par with marriage?
Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 00:01 by Ray Azzopardi, Xemxija
It has been reported that Civil Liberties Minister Helena Dalli urged society “to compare the Civil Union Bill with civil, not Church marriage”.
Why are we giving two versions of marriage in order to suit our political interests? Why don’t we define marriage before we decide whether the union between homosexuals should be considered at par with marriage?
Times: Gay people welcome at Sochi says Putin
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131029/sport/Gay-people-welcome-at-Sochi-says-Putin.492391#.UnKVE3CsLD4
Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 00:01
President Vladimir Putin, seeking to defuse criticism over his treatment of Russia’s gay community, said all people will be welcome in the Black Sea resort of Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Triggering angry criticism from the West and even calls to boycott the Sochi games, Russia adopted in June a ban on homosexual “propaganda” among minors, a law denounced by critics as discriminatory and aimed at stifling dissent.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013, 00:01
President Vladimir Putin, seeking to defuse criticism over his treatment of Russia’s gay community, said all people will be welcome in the Black Sea resort of Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Triggering angry criticism from the West and even calls to boycott the Sochi games, Russia adopted in June a ban on homosexual “propaganda” among minors, a law denounced by critics as discriminatory and aimed at stifling dissent.
Independent: Too Hot to Handle
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-29/opinions/too-hot-to-handle-3025305603/
Tuesday, 29 October 2013, 07:52 , by Gejtu Vella
[Excerpts of the article. Click on the above link to view the entire article.] ...
Going back to local challenges a number of hot issues are taking shape simultaneously on the national agenda. I will attempt to address some.
It is common knowledge that the gay community has mounted substantial pressure within our society, not least within political parties, during the past months. Without going into the merits of the issue, the gay community have lobbied in favour of their cause and now they have it black on white. The gay community should be proud of this achievement. I firmly believe that no one has a right to interfere in others’ lives.
Tuesday, 29 October 2013, 07:52 , by Gejtu Vella
[Excerpts of the article. Click on the above link to view the entire article.] ...
Going back to local challenges a number of hot issues are taking shape simultaneously on the national agenda. I will attempt to address some.
It is common knowledge that the gay community has mounted substantial pressure within our society, not least within political parties, during the past months. Without going into the merits of the issue, the gay community have lobbied in favour of their cause and now they have it black on white. The gay community should be proud of this achievement. I firmly believe that no one has a right to interfere in others’ lives.
Independent: Civil Unions 'Profoundly Change' Definition of Marriage - Mgr Gouder
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-28/news/civil-unions-profoundly-change-definition-of-marriage-mgr-gouder-3005906945/
Monday, 28 October 2013, 09:15 , by Neil Camilleri
The Civil Unions Bill is a full marriage Bill, according to Monsignor Anton Gouder, the Curia’s Pro-Vicar General.
When asked for his personal opinion on the subject by this paper, Mgr Gouder said that the Bill itself confirms that it is a full marriage. This is not a matter of opinion. “Under the heading ‘Objects and Reasons’”, the Bill states that “the underlying principle of this Act is to equate civil unions with marriages, in terms of procedure and substance in a manner that guarantees equal rights to parties in a civil union as are granted to spouses in marriage”.
Monday, 28 October 2013, 09:15 , by Neil Camilleri
The Civil Unions Bill is a full marriage Bill, according to Monsignor Anton Gouder, the Curia’s Pro-Vicar General.
When asked for his personal opinion on the subject by this paper, Mgr Gouder said that the Bill itself confirms that it is a full marriage. This is not a matter of opinion. “Under the heading ‘Objects and Reasons’”, the Bill states that “the underlying principle of this Act is to equate civil unions with marriages, in terms of procedure and substance in a manner that guarantees equal rights to parties in a civil union as are granted to spouses in marriage”.
Malta Today: Putin - Gay athletes welcome at next year’s Winter Olympics
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/world/Putin-Gay-athletes-welcome-at-next-year-s-Winter-Olympics-20131029
Tuesday 29 October 2013 - 09:08
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that gay and lesbian athletes have nothing to fear at next year's Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, insisting that gay athletes - and supporters - should feel at ease.
Russia has been criticised over a new law banning "homosexual propaganda" towards people under 18.
Under this new homosexual propaganda law, passed earlier this year, private individuals promoting "non-traditional sexual relations" to minors face fines of up to 5,000 roubles (€113.74) while officials risk paying 10 times that amount. Businesses and schools could be fined up to 500,000 roubles.
Tuesday 29 October 2013 - 09:08
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that gay and lesbian athletes have nothing to fear at next year's Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, insisting that gay athletes - and supporters - should feel at ease.
Russia has been criticised over a new law banning "homosexual propaganda" towards people under 18.
Under this new homosexual propaganda law, passed earlier this year, private individuals promoting "non-traditional sexual relations" to minors face fines of up to 5,000 roubles (€113.74) while officials risk paying 10 times that amount. Businesses and schools could be fined up to 500,000 roubles.
Malta Today: The sanitised debate on civil unions
While the introduction of civil unions is a welcome step towards greater social inclusion, it has exposed the lack of a real organic debate within political parties.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/blogsdetails/blogs/The-sanitised-debate-on-civil-unions-20131029
Tuesday, October 29, 2013 by James Debono
Malta has truly made performed an incredible summersault: from being one of the last countries in the world to introduce divorce to one which grants a civil status equivalent to marriage (with adoption rights included) to same sex couples.
We did so without first introducing a cohabitation regime for people who want some basic guarantees without assuming the full obligations of marriage. The government has in fact hinted that it will be introducing a cohabitation bill at a later stage.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/blogsdetails/blogs/The-sanitised-debate-on-civil-unions-20131029
Tuesday, October 29, 2013 by James Debono
Malta has truly made performed an incredible summersault: from being one of the last countries in the world to introduce divorce to one which grants a civil status equivalent to marriage (with adoption rights included) to same sex couples.
We did so without first introducing a cohabitation regime for people who want some basic guarantees without assuming the full obligations of marriage. The government has in fact hinted that it will be introducing a cohabitation bill at a later stage.
Independent: 'Gay Marriage' Bill halts adoptions from Russia
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-28/news/gay-marriage-bill-halts-adoptions-from-russia-3015737345/
Monday, 28 October 2013, 13:00
Prospective heterosexual parents who were anxiously awaiting their adoptive children to arrive to their new Maltese homes from Russia were shocked when they were informed that all adoptions from Russia have been put on hold pending the Maltese Parliament’s decision to legalise same-sex ‘marriage’.
Following reports in other media that adoptions from Russia have been ‘temporarily frozen’, this newspaper has seen correspondence of a Maltese couple who were preparing a new home for their adoptive daughter, born to Russian parents in Russia.
Monday, 28 October 2013, 13:00
Prospective heterosexual parents who were anxiously awaiting their adoptive children to arrive to their new Maltese homes from Russia were shocked when they were informed that all adoptions from Russia have been put on hold pending the Maltese Parliament’s decision to legalise same-sex ‘marriage’.
Following reports in other media that adoptions from Russia have been ‘temporarily frozen’, this newspaper has seen correspondence of a Maltese couple who were preparing a new home for their adoptive daughter, born to Russian parents in Russia.
Independent: Content, Scope of Bill in line with Commitments - Gabi Calleja
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-28/news/content-scope-of-bill-in-line-with-commitments-gabi-calleja-3005906946/
Monday, 28 October 2013, 09:14 , by Duncan Barry
Malta Gay Rights Movement coordinator Gabi Calleja believes that the content of the soon-to-be-approved Civil Union Bill reflects the nature of discussions/consultations held both prior to the general election and after between the gay rights lobby group, LGBT Labour and the consultative council appointed by the government.
Ms Calleja was replying to questions tabled by this newspaper on whether the content of the ‘gay marriage’ bill, proposed by Minister for Civil Liberties Helena Dalli, was in line with what was proposed to Labour’s gay rights lobby group and the government’s consultative council by the gay rights movement prior to and after the election.
Monday, 28 October 2013, 09:14 , by Duncan Barry
Malta Gay Rights Movement coordinator Gabi Calleja believes that the content of the soon-to-be-approved Civil Union Bill reflects the nature of discussions/consultations held both prior to the general election and after between the gay rights lobby group, LGBT Labour and the consultative council appointed by the government.
Ms Calleja was replying to questions tabled by this newspaper on whether the content of the ‘gay marriage’ bill, proposed by Minister for Civil Liberties Helena Dalli, was in line with what was proposed to Labour’s gay rights lobby group and the government’s consultative council by the gay rights movement prior to and after the election.
Wednesday, 30 October 2013
David Gold: Implementing elements of the Scottish Bill in the Maltese Civil Union Bill
If certain elements of the Scottish
bill for the legalization of civil marriage for all consenting adult
couples, no matter their gender, no matter their sexual orientation,
were incorporated into the bill on civil unions now before the
Maltese Parliament, it would be fairer and presumably less
unpalatable to its opponents
27.10.2013 by David Gold
“Opposition leader Simon Busuttil
said in Parliament […] that he was proud of the position adopted
by the Nationalist Party yesterday in favour of a law on civil
unions. […]. [H]e noted [that] one of the amendments which needed
to be made was over how the law on marriage (also applicable to the
new law) made reference to religious marriages. It was evident that
religious marriage could not apply to civil unions and therefore
matters such as this needed to be clarified. What the Opposition was
after was a law that was clear and did not cause confusion”
(“Times: Busuttil: PN decision on civil unions was another step
forward,” Malta Gay News, 23 October 2013).
Times: Civil unions in focus
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131027/local/Civil-unions-in-focus.492044#.UnFMaHCsLD4
Mario Gerada
As Parliament debates a Bill that will allow gay couples to contract a civil union granting them full marriage rights, Kurt Sansone gets both sides of the issue.
The case for equality
Mario Gerada
Being gay and adhering to the Catholic faith seems irreconcilable but Mario Gerada believes otherwise. To him even the Christian understanding of marriage can apply to gay couples.
It is the argument he starts with when asked about the Civil Unions Bill currently before Parliament. The Bill that provides State recognition of gay couples equates civil unions to marriage in all but name.
But although the Bill is of a civil nature Mr Gerada feels that marriage in the Maltese context still has a strong sacramental dimension.
“I believe the Government consciously chose not to call it gay marriage out of respect for Maltese culture; not to introduce this type of relationship within the religious context,” Mr Gerada argues.
He says the Bill is a positive step forward because it recognises the existence of gay couples that have their own tribulations like any other heterosexual couples.
Times: Public lecture on gay marriage, theology
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131027/education/Public-lecture-on-gay-marriage-theology.492207#.UnFManCsLD4
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 00:01
Haukur Ingi Jónasson
Theology of human rights: The case of gay marriage in Iceland is the theme of a public lecture to be held on Tuesday from 5.30 to 7pm at Gateway Building Hall C at the University’s Msida campus, organised by the Department of Youth & Community Studies.
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 00:01
Haukur Ingi Jónasson
Theology of human rights: The case of gay marriage in Iceland is the theme of a public lecture to be held on Tuesday from 5.30 to 7pm at Gateway Building Hall C at the University’s Msida campus, organised by the Department of Youth & Community Studies.
Times: Shut up, pack up or put up
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131027/opinion/Shut-up-pack-up-or-put-up.492087#.UnFMb3CsLD4
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 00:01 by Fr Joe Borg
During the present purposely-rushed discussion about the Government’s decision to legalise same-sex marriage, many are comparing and contrasting this issue with the referendum and debate about the introduction of divorce legislation. (I purposely and correctly use ‘same-sex marriage’, as every man and his dog has now accepted the fact that the proposed Bill introduces gay marriage in all but name).
This exercise can be an interesting one.
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 00:01 by Fr Joe Borg
During the present purposely-rushed discussion about the Government’s decision to legalise same-sex marriage, many are comparing and contrasting this issue with the referendum and debate about the introduction of divorce legislation. (I purposely and correctly use ‘same-sex marriage’, as every man and his dog has now accepted the fact that the proposed Bill introduces gay marriage in all but name).
This exercise can be an interesting one.
Times: Catholic legislators’ responsibility
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131027/letters/Catholic-legislators-responsibility.492100#.UnFMb3CsLD4
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 00:01 by Rev. George Frendo, Victoria
The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, in the document Considerations regarding Proposals to give Legal Recognition to Unions between Homosexual Persons (June 3, 2003), sets out clearly and in the customary scholarly manner and pastoral sensibility the guidelines for the formation of an authentic Catholic conscience and consequent practice regarding the said matter.
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 00:01 by Rev. George Frendo, Victoria
The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, in the document Considerations regarding Proposals to give Legal Recognition to Unions between Homosexual Persons (June 3, 2003), sets out clearly and in the customary scholarly manner and pastoral sensibility the guidelines for the formation of an authentic Catholic conscience and consequent practice regarding the said matter.
Independent: Homosexuals, Sexuality and Legislation: A Context
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-27/opinions/homosexuals-sexuality-and-legislation-a-context-3001745418/
Sunday, 27 October 2013, 09:05 , by Fr Colin Apap
Culturally deviant. Possessed by the devil. Sick. Genetically disturbed. Biochemically imbalanced. Possessed by the Devil himself (or herself!). Throughout history, attitudes toward homosexuality have vacillated from sympathy and support to disdain and neglect. In 1974, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) removed homosexuality as a pathological psychiatric condition from its authoritative Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Moral evaluation was based then also on these ‘scientific’ findings. One still tends nowadays to quote the Bible, the Word of God, to chastise homosexuals. Forty years ago homosexuals were persecuted, killed, ridiculed. Some countries still kill in a public square all those who say they are homosexuals; in others the official position of the State is that they do not exist; they are a figment of the imagination. In Kenya if one admits to being a homosexual, he is killed by his own family! For some time stops, there is no evolution of thought. Change, indeed, is very, very hard.
This is the context.
Sunday, 27 October 2013, 09:05 , by Fr Colin Apap
Culturally deviant. Possessed by the devil. Sick. Genetically disturbed. Biochemically imbalanced. Possessed by the Devil himself (or herself!). Throughout history, attitudes toward homosexuality have vacillated from sympathy and support to disdain and neglect. In 1974, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) removed homosexuality as a pathological psychiatric condition from its authoritative Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Moral evaluation was based then also on these ‘scientific’ findings. One still tends nowadays to quote the Bible, the Word of God, to chastise homosexuals. Forty years ago homosexuals were persecuted, killed, ridiculed. Some countries still kill in a public square all those who say they are homosexuals; in others the official position of the State is that they do not exist; they are a figment of the imagination. In Kenya if one admits to being a homosexual, he is killed by his own family! For some time stops, there is no evolution of thought. Change, indeed, is very, very hard.
This is the context.
Independent: Gay couples and adopting children
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-27/opinions/gay-couples-and-adopting-children-3001745425/
Sunday, 27 October 2013, 09:16 , by Stephen Calleja
Raising children is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. It is a 24/7 exercise that starts from the moment of conception and only finishes with the grave. Children remain “yours” even when they become grown-ups and have their own families; if anything, the thinking and worrying multiplies when they also become fathers and mothers.
Nobody teaches anyone to be a parent. It is a case of trial and error, a constant give-and-take struggle that has its ups and downs. For some it is more ups, for others it is more downs. It is a wonderful feeling when one’s children achieve some goal, but it is likewise so upsetting when they get in some kind of trouble.
Sunday, 27 October 2013, 09:16 , by Stephen Calleja
Raising children is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. It is a 24/7 exercise that starts from the moment of conception and only finishes with the grave. Children remain “yours” even when they become grown-ups and have their own families; if anything, the thinking and worrying multiplies when they also become fathers and mothers.
Nobody teaches anyone to be a parent. It is a case of trial and error, a constant give-and-take struggle that has its ups and downs. For some it is more ups, for others it is more downs. It is a wonderful feeling when one’s children achieve some goal, but it is likewise so upsetting when they get in some kind of trouble.
Independent: Video: Church offers unprecedented apology to gay community
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-26/news/video-church-offers-unprecedented-apology-to-gay-community-3000041473/
Saturday, 26 October 2013, 12:27
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeTJzfGUdc0
In what can be described as an unprecedented development by the Catholic Church in Malta, Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna braved the airwaves yesterday and offered a sincere apology to all LGBT people for the sufferings they had to endure because of the stand of the Church against their lifestyle.
Mgr Scicluna was the main guest on TVM’s Friday chat-show Xarabank, hosted by popular presenter Peppi Azzopardi. The programme discussed the civil unions’ bill being debated in Parliament, or rather, as it has been described by most experts, as the ‘gay marriage’ bill due to its stark likeness to the marriage law.
Saturday, 26 October 2013, 12:27
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeTJzfGUdc0
In what can be described as an unprecedented development by the Catholic Church in Malta, Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna braved the airwaves yesterday and offered a sincere apology to all LGBT people for the sufferings they had to endure because of the stand of the Church against their lifestyle.
Mgr Scicluna was the main guest on TVM’s Friday chat-show Xarabank, hosted by popular presenter Peppi Azzopardi. The programme discussed the civil unions’ bill being debated in Parliament, or rather, as it has been described by most experts, as the ‘gay marriage’ bill due to its stark likeness to the marriage law.
Malta Today: The LGBT historic leap forward
The historic leap forward in the LGBT debate should not make us forget other challenges ahead in family policy.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/blogsdetails/blogs/The-LGBT-historic-leap-forward-20131026
Blog Saturday, October 26, 2013 by Michael Briguglio
The proposed legislation on civil unions is a historic leap forward in Maltese society. Following the introduction of divorce some years ago, it was becoming clearer that the introduction of other civil rights would be on the political agenda for the years to come.
I am sure that activists in the LGBT movement, including MGRM and Green activists and some who since then joined the Labour Party, are proud of their contribution to the current debate. Likewise, on a personal note, I am proud that when I chaired the Green Party, I was both a co-founder of Malta's 'yes' movement in the divorce referendum campaign, and also to be the first party leader in Malta who spoke for the introduction of full equality on LGBT rights including marriage.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/blogsdetails/blogs/The-LGBT-historic-leap-forward-20131026
Blog Saturday, October 26, 2013 by Michael Briguglio
The proposed legislation on civil unions is a historic leap forward in Maltese society. Following the introduction of divorce some years ago, it was becoming clearer that the introduction of other civil rights would be on the political agenda for the years to come.
I am sure that activists in the LGBT movement, including MGRM and Green activists and some who since then joined the Labour Party, are proud of their contribution to the current debate. Likewise, on a personal note, I am proud that when I chaired the Green Party, I was both a co-founder of Malta's 'yes' movement in the divorce referendum campaign, and also to be the first party leader in Malta who spoke for the introduction of full equality on LGBT rights including marriage.
Independent: Communists appeal for full LGBT rights
http://www.independent.com.mt/mobile/2013-10-23/letters/communists-appeal-for-full-lgbt-rights-2968223747/
Wednesday, 23 October 2013, 08:12 by Victor Degiovanni, Secretary, Communist Party of Malta
The Communist Party of Malta who in the past campaigned for full LGBT rights states that “the proposed bill that is being presented in Parliament on civil union is still discriminatory as it does not legally classify same-sex marriages on the same par with heterosexual marriages.
Although the party recognise that it is a step forward, this bill still classifies LGBT people as second class citizens.
Wednesday, 23 October 2013, 08:12 by Victor Degiovanni, Secretary, Communist Party of Malta
The Communist Party of Malta who in the past campaigned for full LGBT rights states that “the proposed bill that is being presented in Parliament on civil union is still discriminatory as it does not legally classify same-sex marriages on the same par with heterosexual marriages.
Although the party recognise that it is a step forward, this bill still classifies LGBT people as second class citizens.
Malta Today: At the end of the day it's all about respect and dignity
In the wake of parliamentary discussions on the Civil Liberties Act, MIRIAM DALLI meets with happily married couple David Simchik and Antoine Spiteri on what this historical political move could really mean for gays in Malta
20.10.2013 by Miriam Dalli
COUPLES who have dreamed for years for their love to be officially recognised by the Maltese state are getting their wish fulfilled after the government proposed the Civil Liberties Act – a law which grants gay couples the same rights as marriage but which is referred to as ‘civil union’.
[View the entire article here.]
20.10.2013 by Miriam Dalli
COUPLES who have dreamed for years for their love to be officially recognised by the Maltese state are getting their wish fulfilled after the government proposed the Civil Liberties Act – a law which grants gay couples the same rights as marriage but which is referred to as ‘civil union’.
[View the entire article here.]
Monday, 28 October 2013
UOM: Public Lecture: The Case of Gay Marriage in Iceland
Message sent by the Malta Gay Rights Movement:
University of Malta Public Lecture
The topic of gay and lesbian rights has been of interest for the past few decades within theological circles. While society in general is increasingly recogninzing the rights of this minority group in question, religion continues to create various barriers to them. This public lecture will be discussing the issue of religion, besides explaining the rationale for a legislation of gay and lesbian marriages in Iceland. Furthermore, these insights are to be intertwined with a presentation of what can be called an integrated theology of human rights.
University of Malta Public Lecture
L-UNIVERSITÀ TA’ MALTA UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
Msida - Malta Msida - Malta
FAKULTÀ GĦAT-TISĦIĦ TAS-SOĊJETÀ FACULTY FOR SOCIAL WELLBEING
The Department of Youth & Community Studies will be
hosting a public lecture entitled
Theology of Human Rights:
The Case of Gay Marriage in Iceland
Speaker: Dr. Haukur Ingi Jónasson – University of Iceland
Venue: Gateway Building Hall C
University of Malta, Msida
Date: Tuesday, 29th October 2013
Time: 17:30 till 19:00
Msida - Malta Msida - Malta
FAKULTÀ GĦAT-TISĦIĦ TAS-SOĊJETÀ FACULTY FOR SOCIAL WELLBEING
The Department of Youth & Community Studies will be
hosting a public lecture entitled
Theology of Human Rights:
The Case of Gay Marriage in Iceland
Speaker: Dr. Haukur Ingi Jónasson – University of Iceland
Venue: Gateway Building Hall C
University of Malta, Msida
Date: Tuesday, 29th October 2013
Time: 17:30 till 19:00
The topic of gay and lesbian rights has been of interest for the past few decades within theological circles. While society in general is increasingly recogninzing the rights of this minority group in question, religion continues to create various barriers to them. This public lecture will be discussing the issue of religion, besides explaining the rationale for a legislation of gay and lesbian marriages in Iceland. Furthermore, these insights are to be intertwined with a presentation of what can be called an integrated theology of human rights.
Times: Treating unequals as equals
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131024/opinion/Treating-unequals-as-equals.491676#.Um6qP3CsLD4
Thursday, October 24, 2013, 00:01 by Ivan Fenech
What in heaven’s name did our bishops say about civil unions? They offered a “reflection”, they said, on a “novelty” in a bill that introduces “new elements in reference to marriage and family”. Then, in the most apologetic tone, our bishops tell us that they will not repeat the teaching of the Church on this issue because it “is clear”. There is actually a footnote in the bishops’ statement should anyone wish to find where this clarity lies. Wherever it is, it was certainly not in what they said.
In the UK, only a few months ago, the Catholic Church launched a campaign to lobby MPs to vote against government plans for gay marriage. In a letter on behalf of bishops, the Archbishop of Southwark, Mgr Peter Smith, simply said: “The time to act is now.”
Thursday, October 24, 2013, 00:01 by Ivan Fenech
What in heaven’s name did our bishops say about civil unions? They offered a “reflection”, they said, on a “novelty” in a bill that introduces “new elements in reference to marriage and family”. Then, in the most apologetic tone, our bishops tell us that they will not repeat the teaching of the Church on this issue because it “is clear”. There is actually a footnote in the bishops’ statement should anyone wish to find where this clarity lies. Wherever it is, it was certainly not in what they said.
In the UK, only a few months ago, the Catholic Church launched a campaign to lobby MPs to vote against government plans for gay marriage. In a letter on behalf of bishops, the Archbishop of Southwark, Mgr Peter Smith, simply said: “The time to act is now.”
Independent: Former Labour PMs differ in opinion on 'Gay Marriage'
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-24/news/former-labour-pms-differ-in-opinion-on-gay-marriage-2978709504/
Thursday, 24 October 2013, 10:30
Former Prime Minister Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici said that he is against gay couples adopting. He said that he disagreed with parliament legislating and therefore sanctioning civil unions.
“In my opinion, a man has a fundamental right to marry a woman and vice-versa, but no man has a fundamental right to marry a man and no woman has a fundamental right to marry a woman.”
Thursday, 24 October 2013, 10:30
Former Prime Minister Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici said that he is against gay couples adopting. He said that he disagreed with parliament legislating and therefore sanctioning civil unions.
“In my opinion, a man has a fundamental right to marry a woman and vice-versa, but no man has a fundamental right to marry a man and no woman has a fundamental right to marry a woman.”
Independent: PN, PL cosying up to gays - Adrian Vassallo
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-24/news/pn-pl-cosying-up-to-gays-adrian-vassallo-2978578433/
Thursday, 24 October 2013, 12:00
“Children are not a consumer item,” Adrian Vassallo told this newspaper, when asked about same sex adoptions.
“I have always been loyal towards Labour’s electoral programme, and since I didn’t agree with this proposal which formed part of Labour’s electoral programme, I decided to call it a day and refrain from contesting the March general election.”
Dr Vassallo said: “What was considered as ‘normal’ in the past has become strange and what was deemed as something ‘bad’ has suddenly become the ‘right’ thing to do and this is why we conservative people have been dubbed as dinosaurs, simply because we simply stand by what was considered to be the norm and the right thing for donkeys’ years.”
Thursday, 24 October 2013, 12:00
“Children are not a consumer item,” Adrian Vassallo told this newspaper, when asked about same sex adoptions.
“I have always been loyal towards Labour’s electoral programme, and since I didn’t agree with this proposal which formed part of Labour’s electoral programme, I decided to call it a day and refrain from contesting the March general election.”
Dr Vassallo said: “What was considered as ‘normal’ in the past has become strange and what was deemed as something ‘bad’ has suddenly become the ‘right’ thing to do and this is why we conservative people have been dubbed as dinosaurs, simply because we simply stand by what was considered to be the norm and the right thing for donkeys’ years.”
Independent: Is society ready for adoption by same-sex couples? - PL PN
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-24/news/is-society-ready-for-adoption-by-same-sex-couples-pl-mp-2978578432/
Thursday, 24 October 2013, 09:30 , by Duncan Barry
Government MP Luciano Busuttil has asked whether Maltese society is ready for the reality of same sex couple adoptions, but said that someone has to be bold enough to make that first move.
Replying to questions put by this newspaper, Dr Busuttil said that legislation (referring to the bill) must go through, but he asked whether the Maltese were ready to accept the concept.
“But someone must be bold enough to make that first move,” he said. Being the chairman of the Consideration of Bills Committee, Dr Busuttil said he is not against gay couples adopting children, “but we need to look at holistic reform” on the subject.
Thursday, 24 October 2013, 09:30 , by Duncan Barry
Government MP Luciano Busuttil has asked whether Maltese society is ready for the reality of same sex couple adoptions, but said that someone has to be bold enough to make that first move.
Replying to questions put by this newspaper, Dr Busuttil said that legislation (referring to the bill) must go through, but he asked whether the Maltese were ready to accept the concept.
“But someone must be bold enough to make that first move,” he said. Being the chairman of the Consideration of Bills Committee, Dr Busuttil said he is not against gay couples adopting children, “but we need to look at holistic reform” on the subject.
Independent: 'Gay Marriage' Bill is not enough - Claudette Buttigieg
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-23/news/gay-marriage-bill-is-not-enough-claudette-buttigieg-2976088064/
Wednesday, 23 October 2013, 21:00 , by Jacob Borg
PN MP Claudette Buttigieg today opened the discussion on a private member’s bill seeking to amend the Constitution, adding protection against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation.
If passed, the amendment will nullify laws that are discriminatory on the grounds of sexual orientation, and it will also provide protection against such discrimination in the performance of functions of any public office or any public authority.
Wednesday, 23 October 2013, 21:00 , by Jacob Borg
PN MP Claudette Buttigieg today opened the discussion on a private member’s bill seeking to amend the Constitution, adding protection against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation.
If passed, the amendment will nullify laws that are discriminatory on the grounds of sexual orientation, and it will also provide protection against such discrimination in the performance of functions of any public office or any public authority.
Parlament: Diskors tal-On. Dr Helena Dalli rigward il-Preżentazzjoni tal-Abbozz tal-Unjoni Ċivili
(UNEDITED)
ESTRATT
MINN SEDUTA 065 LI SARET FIT-22 TA’ OTTUBRU, 2013
ORDNIJIET
TAL-ĠURNATA
ABBOZZ
TA’ LIĠI
DWAR
L-UNJONIJIET ĊIVILI
CIVIL
UNIONS BILL
MR
SPEAKER:
Rimarki? Il-Ministru Helena Dalli.
ONOR.
HELENA DALLI (Ministru għad-Djalogu Soċjali, Affarijiet
tal-Konsumatur u Libertajiet Ċivili):
Sur President, nipproponi t-Tieni Qari tal-Abbozz ta’ Liġi dwar
l-Unjonijiet Ċivili.
Times: Church must take action
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131023/letters/Church-must-take-action.491547?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=church-must-take-action#.Um6mMXCsLD4
Wednesday, October 23, 2013, 00:01 by John Micallef, Sliema
As a Catholic, I don’t agree with the proposed Civil Unions Bill. Same-sex couples – whoever and whatever they are – should, in my opinion, never be allowed to tie any kind of knot (Gay Couples To “Tie Knot” In Front Of State Official, October 14).
It is already immoral for same-sex couples to be living together. The union should only be between a man and a woman as God wanted it be from time immemorial. Same-sex union is illegal in the eyes of God and, so far, also in the eyes of civil law. Are we now going to legalise it?
Wednesday, October 23, 2013, 00:01 by John Micallef, Sliema
As a Catholic, I don’t agree with the proposed Civil Unions Bill. Same-sex couples – whoever and whatever they are – should, in my opinion, never be allowed to tie any kind of knot (Gay Couples To “Tie Knot” In Front Of State Official, October 14).
It is already immoral for same-sex couples to be living together. The union should only be between a man and a woman as God wanted it be from time immemorial. Same-sex union is illegal in the eyes of God and, so far, also in the eyes of civil law. Are we now going to legalise it?
Independent: Parliament debates 'Gay Marriage' Bill
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-22/news/parliament-debates-civil-unions-bill-2964455428/
Tuesday, 22 October 2013, 18:57 , by Neil Camilleri
UPDATE 4
Parliament tonight started debating the Civil Unions Bill presented by the government.
The bill, once approved by Parliament, will allow gay couples to enjoy civil rights similar to those of heterosexual couples, including the adoption of children.
The government published the bill last week and the Nationalist Party on Monday issued a statement saying it will be voting in favour and will also propose amendments.
Bill is not about gay rights, but human rights
Tuesday, 22 October 2013, 18:57 , by Neil Camilleri
UPDATE 4
Parliament tonight started debating the Civil Unions Bill presented by the government.
The bill, once approved by Parliament, will allow gay couples to enjoy civil rights similar to those of heterosexual couples, including the adoption of children.
The government published the bill last week and the Nationalist Party on Monday issued a statement saying it will be voting in favour and will also propose amendments.
Bill is not about gay rights, but human rights
Independent: PN MPs non committal on gay adoption clause
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-23/news/pn-mps-non-committal-on-gay-adoption-clause-2968354818/
Wednesday, 23 October 2013, 12:00 , by Duncan Barry
The ‘Great Debate on Gay Marriage’ kicked off in parliament yesterday, but prior to the sitting this newspaper embarked on an exercise to pick the brains of Opposition MPs on the issue.
The Nationalist Party has said that it will support the Bill when it is put to a vote, but there has been opposition and it intends to propose amendments to certain clauses – presumably those referring to adoption by same-sex couples.
Wednesday, 23 October 2013, 12:00 , by Duncan Barry
The ‘Great Debate on Gay Marriage’ kicked off in parliament yesterday, but prior to the sitting this newspaper embarked on an exercise to pick the brains of Opposition MPs on the issue.
The Nationalist Party has said that it will support the Bill when it is put to a vote, but there has been opposition and it intends to propose amendments to certain clauses – presumably those referring to adoption by same-sex couples.
Malta Today: PN in favour of civil unions, ‘a step forward for the party’
Opposition leader Simon Busuttil describes PN’s position in favour of
civil unions as a clear message in favour of gay communities.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/PN-in-favour-of-civil-unions-a-step-forward-for-the-party-20131022?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=pn-in-favour-of-civil-unions-a-step-forward-for-the-party
Tuesday 22 October 2013 - 20:33 by Miriam Dalli
Opposition leader Simon Busuttil
The Opposition's position in favour of the Civil Liberties Act was a "positive step forward" for the Nationalist Party, according to leader Simon Busuttil.
Addressing the House of Representatives during the debate on civil unions, Busuttil said he was "proud" of the decision that the Nationalist parliamentary group agreed upon.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/PN-in-favour-of-civil-unions-a-step-forward-for-the-party-20131022?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=pn-in-favour-of-civil-unions-a-step-forward-for-the-party
Tuesday 22 October 2013 - 20:33 by Miriam Dalli
Opposition leader Simon Busuttil
The Opposition's position in favour of the Civil Liberties Act was a "positive step forward" for the Nationalist Party, according to leader Simon Busuttil.
Addressing the House of Representatives during the debate on civil unions, Busuttil said he was "proud" of the decision that the Nationalist parliamentary group agreed upon.
Malta Today: ‘Families are about relationships, commitment and love’ - MGRM
‘The uncomfortable truth is that prejudice towards LGBT persons remains firmly entrenched in some people’s hearts and minds’.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Families-are-about-relationships-commitment-and-love-MGRM-20131023
Wednesday 23 October 2013 - 09:21 by Miriam Dalli
MGRM coordinator Gabi Calleja.
The "uncomfortable truth" was that prejudice towards LGBT persons remains firmly entrenched in some people's hearts and minds, according to MGRM coordinator Gabi Calleja.
Calleja was reacting to the different positions being taken on civil unions that is currently being discussed in parliament. The Church has insisted that children should be brought up by mother and father, while the Opposition has argued for a clear distinction between the marriage law and civil unions.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Families-are-about-relationships-commitment-and-love-MGRM-20131023
Wednesday 23 October 2013 - 09:21 by Miriam Dalli
MGRM coordinator Gabi Calleja.
The "uncomfortable truth" was that prejudice towards LGBT persons remains firmly entrenched in some people's hearts and minds, according to MGRM coordinator Gabi Calleja.
Calleja was reacting to the different positions being taken on civil unions that is currently being discussed in parliament. The Church has insisted that children should be brought up by mother and father, while the Opposition has argued for a clear distinction between the marriage law and civil unions.
Malta Today: Minister Dalli looks forward to ‘lengthy debate’ on civil unions
Parliament starts discussing Civil Liberties Act.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Minister-Dalli-looks-forward-to-lengthy-debate-on-civil-unions-20131022
Tuesday 22 October 2013 - 18:52 by Miriam Dalli
Civil Liberties Minister Helena Dalli
Civil Liberties Minister Helena Dalli looked forward to a lengthy debate on civil unions, both in parliament and outside.
Addressing Parliament during the second reading of the Civil Liberties Act, Dalli said she felt "extremely happy and proud" to be able to discuss the Bill.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Minister-Dalli-looks-forward-to-lengthy-debate-on-civil-unions-20131022
Tuesday 22 October 2013 - 18:52 by Miriam Dalli
Civil Liberties Minister Helena Dalli
Civil Liberties Minister Helena Dalli looked forward to a lengthy debate on civil unions, both in parliament and outside.
Addressing Parliament during the second reading of the Civil Liberties Act, Dalli said she felt "extremely happy and proud" to be able to discuss the Bill.
Saturday, 26 October 2013
P. Attard: Civil Union Bill: Courageous and Elegant
21.10.2013 by Dr Ing. Patrick Attard
A concise version of this article was published on the Times of Malta on the 26th October 2013:
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131026/letters/Courageous-elegant-Bill.491963#.Umt14nA6KSo
I would like to thank the Minister for Civil Liberties and the LGBT Consultative Council for presenting such a courageous and elegant BIll. This Bill is truly historic since it even recognises marriages contracted abroad as such.
This is an enormous step forward for the Maltese LGBT Community and will not only affect the gay and lesbian couples who would like to formalise their relationship but it will have implications on others and restore the dignity of gay and lesbian individuals whose relationships will no longer be considered as dirty and illegitimate.
A concise version of this article was published on the Times of Malta on the 26th October 2013:
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131026/letters/Courageous-elegant-Bill.491963#.Umt14nA6KSo
I would like to thank the Minister for Civil Liberties and the LGBT Consultative Council for presenting such a courageous and elegant BIll. This Bill is truly historic since it even recognises marriages contracted abroad as such.
This is an enormous step forward for the Maltese LGBT Community and will not only affect the gay and lesbian couples who would like to formalise their relationship but it will have implications on others and restore the dignity of gay and lesbian individuals whose relationships will no longer be considered as dirty and illegitimate.
Wednesday, 23 October 2013
Times: Muscat: 'PN's commitment on civil unions questionable'
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131022/local/muscat-pns-commitment-on-civil-unions-questionable.491508#.UmgAZ3CkHD4
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 20:40
Amendments to the civil union bill which will be moved by the Opposition could only be interpreted as an attempt to limit the rights of same-sex couples, Prime Minister Joseph said this evneing.
Addressing the annual general conference of the Labour Youth Forum at the party headquarters, Dr Muscat questioned whether the PN is genuinely committed in favour of civil unions.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 20:40
Amendments to the civil union bill which will be moved by the Opposition could only be interpreted as an attempt to limit the rights of same-sex couples, Prime Minister Joseph said this evneing.
Addressing the annual general conference of the Labour Youth Forum at the party headquarters, Dr Muscat questioned whether the PN is genuinely committed in favour of civil unions.
Times: Busuttil: PN decision on civil unions was another step forward
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131022/local/busuttil-proud-of-pn-decision-on-civil-unions.491507#.UmgAaXCkHD4
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 20:33
File photo
Opposition leader Simon Busuttil said in Parliament this evening that he was proud of the position adopted by the Nationalist Party yesterday in favour of a law on civil unions.
He said the decision was a step forward from the past, when, maybe, not enough was done in this sector by the party. However the PN too had promised recognition of civil partnerships.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 20:33
File photo
Opposition leader Simon Busuttil said in Parliament this evening that he was proud of the position adopted by the Nationalist Party yesterday in favour of a law on civil unions.
He said the decision was a step forward from the past, when, maybe, not enough was done in this sector by the party. However the PN too had promised recognition of civil partnerships.
Times: Australian territory votes for gay marriage
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131022/world/australian-territory-votes-for-gay-marriage.491434#.Umf_wnCkHD4
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 09:39 by PA
Provincial politicians for the territory that includes Australia's capital have voted to allow same-sex marriage, a first for the country, but the federal government said it will try to stop gay weddings from happening.
The parliament of the Australian Capital Territory passed the law in a 9-8 vote, drawing a standing ovation from the 200-strong crowd in the parliament's public gallery. Many sang John Paul Young's 1970s pop hit Love Is In The Air in celebration.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 09:39 by PA
Provincial politicians for the territory that includes Australia's capital have voted to allow same-sex marriage, a first for the country, but the federal government said it will try to stop gay weddings from happening.
The parliament of the Australian Capital Territory passed the law in a 9-8 vote, drawing a standing ovation from the 200-strong crowd in the parliament's public gallery. Many sang John Paul Young's 1970s pop hit Love Is In The Air in celebration.
Times: Leave the children out of it
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131022/letters/Leave-the-children-out-of-it.491412#.Umf_xXCkHD4
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 00:01 by Joseph Farrugia, Attard
I was dumbfounded to read that persons of the same sex who opt for a civil union will have the right to adopt children. I find that it intrudes on the rights of children. No one has the right to hand over children to a couple who will always carry a certain stigma, whatever anyone calls them.
I am all in favour of these couples being given the right to join in a civil union. Their choice and tastes in life are the result of their natural inclination and can rarely be changed. But to involve other persons – and children are persons – in these matters is in my reasoning horrific and should never be made legal.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013, 00:01 by Joseph Farrugia, Attard
I was dumbfounded to read that persons of the same sex who opt for a civil union will have the right to adopt children. I find that it intrudes on the rights of children. No one has the right to hand over children to a couple who will always carry a certain stigma, whatever anyone calls them.
I am all in favour of these couples being given the right to join in a civil union. Their choice and tastes in life are the result of their natural inclination and can rarely be changed. But to involve other persons – and children are persons – in these matters is in my reasoning horrific and should never be made legal.
Independent: Former PN Leaders steer clear of 'Gay Marriage' Bill
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-22/news/former-pn-leaders-steer-clear-of-gay-marriage-bill-2962128897/
Tuesday, 22 October 2013, 15:39
Former PN leaders Eddie Fenech Adami and Lawrence Gonzi have declined to comment on the ‘gay marriage’ bill proposed by the government, and on which the Nationalist Party said it will vote in favour.
The bill, once approved by Parliament, will allow gay couples to enjoy civil rights similar to those of heterosexual couples, including the adoption of children.
Tuesday, 22 October 2013, 15:39
Former PN leaders Eddie Fenech Adami and Lawrence Gonzi have declined to comment on the ‘gay marriage’ bill proposed by the government, and on which the Nationalist Party said it will vote in favour.
The bill, once approved by Parliament, will allow gay couples to enjoy civil rights similar to those of heterosexual couples, including the adoption of children.
Malta Today: It’s solidarity, but not as we know it | Neil Falzon
Malta has often complained of a lack of European solidarity vis-à-vis
its own migration issues. But human rights activist Neil Falzon argues
that European solidarity has been forthcoming… only not of the sort we
had in mind
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/interview/It-s-solidarity-but-not-as-we-know-it-Neil-Falzon-20131021?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=its-solidarity-but-not-as-we-know-it-neil-falzon
Tuesday 22 October 2013 - 09:00 by Raphael Vassallo
Neil Falzon
These are busy times for Neil Falzon. As an activist with aditus, a human rights NGO, he has been catapulted to the front line of an increasingly acrimonious battle between local politicians, the European Commission (and other relevant international institutions) and a wider Maltese public that is now clearly exasperated by seemingly endless waves of uncontrolled immigration.
The phenomenon itself has also taken a decidedly dramatic turn. Loss of life associated with immigration has now reached alarming and unacceptable levels, with as many as 500 asylum seekers dying within a radius of 100 miles from our shores in the past two weeks alone. Yet the political stalemate at European level appears to have changed little, if at all, as a result.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/interview/It-s-solidarity-but-not-as-we-know-it-Neil-Falzon-20131021?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=its-solidarity-but-not-as-we-know-it-neil-falzon
Tuesday 22 October 2013 - 09:00 by Raphael Vassallo
Neil Falzon
These are busy times for Neil Falzon. As an activist with aditus, a human rights NGO, he has been catapulted to the front line of an increasingly acrimonious battle between local politicians, the European Commission (and other relevant international institutions) and a wider Maltese public that is now clearly exasperated by seemingly endless waves of uncontrolled immigration.
The phenomenon itself has also taken a decidedly dramatic turn. Loss of life associated with immigration has now reached alarming and unacceptable levels, with as many as 500 asylum seekers dying within a radius of 100 miles from our shores in the past two weeks alone. Yet the political stalemate at European level appears to have changed little, if at all, as a result.
Times: PN says it backs civil unions
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131021/local/marriage-law.491367#.Umf9-XCkHD5
Monday, October 21, 2013, 18:36
The Nationalist Party said this evening that it backed legislation on civil unions, but it would move amendments to the Bill proposed by the government.
In a brief statement after a meeting of its parliamentary group, the party said that in line with its electoral programme, it was in favour of civil unions between people of the same sex and it was prepared to vote in favour of such a law.
Monday, October 21, 2013, 18:36
The Nationalist Party said this evening that it backed legislation on civil unions, but it would move amendments to the Bill proposed by the government.
In a brief statement after a meeting of its parliamentary group, the party said that in line with its electoral programme, it was in favour of civil unions between people of the same sex and it was prepared to vote in favour of such a law.
Monday, 21 October 2013
Gay Star News: Malta keeps gay blood ban but prepares for same-sex weddings
http://www.gaystarnews.com/article/malta-keeps-gay-blood-ban-prepares-same-sex-weddings211013
A civil union bill on the Mediterranean island is likely to pass but has raised other issues, including whether gay and bi men should be automatically excluded from donating blood
Malta has reaffirmed it will keep the ban on sexually active gay men giving blood – but the island nation is moving towards same-sex civil unions.
The Mediterranean island archipelago is currently debating a form of ‘gay marriage’ – which could be passed within weeks.
But that has led to questions about other LGBT issues, including about the ban on blood donations by gay and bisexual men.
Times: Montenegro protesters fight at gay pride march
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131021/world/Montenegro-protesters-fight-at-gay-pride-march.491302#.UmWF43A6KSo
Monday, October 21, 2013, 00:01 by Reuters
Montenegrins staged their first gay pride march yesterday in the capital under heavy police guard, part of the Balkan state’s efforts to bolster its application to join the EU by showing its commitment to human rights.
After a tense but incident-free march by around 150 people, guarded by almost 2,000 police, scuffles broke out in several places between police and people opposed to same sex rights.
Monday, October 21, 2013, 00:01 by Reuters
Montenegrins staged their first gay pride march yesterday in the capital under heavy police guard, part of the Balkan state’s efforts to bolster its application to join the EU by showing its commitment to human rights.
After a tense but incident-free march by around 150 people, guarded by almost 2,000 police, scuffles broke out in several places between police and people opposed to same sex rights.
Independent: Civil Unions: Gay people can be good parents - Charles Azzopardi
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-21/news/civil-unions-gay-people-can-be-good-parents-charles-azzopardi-2947252225/
Monday, 21 October 2013, 10:15
Family therapist Charles Azzopardi does not disagree with the concept of gay adoption, and says that he has never come across a case where children living with gay parents have experienced any sort of trouble. However, he warns that studies are not conclusive, and are often contradictory. “Some studies say that being raised by gay parents does not have any detrimental effects. Others give a different picture.”
Monday, 21 October 2013, 10:15
Family therapist Charles Azzopardi does not disagree with the concept of gay adoption, and says that he has never come across a case where children living with gay parents have experienced any sort of trouble. However, he warns that studies are not conclusive, and are often contradictory. “Some studies say that being raised by gay parents does not have any detrimental effects. Others give a different picture.”
Independent: Civil Unions: Deeper into the Abyss - Josie Muscat
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-21/news/civil-unions-deeper-into-the-abyss-josie-muscat-2947252226/
Monday, 21 October 2013, 10:16
Far right politician and former PN MP Josie Muscat totally disagrees with adoption by gay couples. He does not agree with gay people adopting individually, let alone as a couple. Speaking to The Malta Independent on Sunday, Dr Muscat said that the Civil Union Bill will take the country further down into the abyss. “It will continue to destroy the concept of family, that is, if we still believe in the family.”
Monday, 21 October 2013, 10:16
Far right politician and former PN MP Josie Muscat totally disagrees with adoption by gay couples. He does not agree with gay people adopting individually, let alone as a couple. Speaking to The Malta Independent on Sunday, Dr Muscat said that the Civil Union Bill will take the country further down into the abyss. “It will continue to destroy the concept of family, that is, if we still believe in the family.”
Malta Today: PN's silence on gay unions belies party's liberal turn
Silence reigns as PN mulls over civil union legislation
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/PN-s-silence-on-gay-unions-belies-party-s-liberal-turn-20131021Monday 21 October 2013 - 09:48 by Matthew Vella. Additional reporting Tim Attard Montalto and Miriam Dalli
Claudette Buttigieg says Labour is introducing gay marriage, but refusing to call it by its real name.
The jury is still out on how the Nationalist Party will be shaping its political response on a popular civil unions bill that will introduce gay marriage in Maltese law, in all but name.
After throwing his weight behind a historic divorce referendum victory in 2011, Joseph Muscat's response to the pink vote was to promise civil unions. Bleeding support, in their last year of government the Nationalists started tightening the screws on a piece of legislation first promised in 1998: rights for cohabiting partners, both opposite- and same-sex couples.
Times: Cana Movement: Different forms of relationships cannot be equated
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131021/local/cana-movement.491265#.UmWDR3A6KSp
Monday, October 21, 2013, 09:33
The Cana Movement said this morning that while MPs have a duty to regulate the rights and obligations of persons who choose to cohabit, partner in a civil union or marry, different forms of relationships cannot be equated.
In a reaction to the Bill on Civil Partnerships, the movement said that:
Monday, October 21, 2013, 09:33
The Cana Movement said this morning that while MPs have a duty to regulate the rights and obligations of persons who choose to cohabit, partner in a civil union or marry, different forms of relationships cannot be equated.
In a reaction to the Bill on Civil Partnerships, the movement said that:
Why the Nationalist Party Should Support the Labour Party's Bill Granting Same-Gender Couples in Malta All the Benefits, Privileges, Protections, and Rights that Different-Gender Married Couples Enjoy
20.10.2013 by Susan and Zachary Valkemirer
In Malta, the government has set out, in a novel way (some say, in an underhanded way), to legalize same-gender civil marriage.
1. A poll of public opinion taken in Malta in 2006 by Eurostat found that 18 percent of the country's adult residents supported the legalization of same-gender civil marriage.
2. A poll taken in October 2009 found that 49 percent of the country's university students supported the legalization of same-gender civil marriage, 35 percent were opposed, and 16 percent were undecided.
In Malta, the government has set out, in a novel way (some say, in an underhanded way), to legalize same-gender civil marriage.
1. A poll of public opinion taken in Malta in 2006 by Eurostat found that 18 percent of the country's adult residents supported the legalization of same-gender civil marriage.
2. A poll taken in October 2009 found that 49 percent of the country's university students supported the legalization of same-gender civil marriage, 35 percent were opposed, and 16 percent were undecided.
Sunday, 20 October 2013
iNews Malta: “Hemm rieda politika biex l-affarijiet jimxu ’l quddiem” - Gabi Calleja
http://www.inewsmalta.com/dart/20131020-hemm-rieda-politika-biex-affarijiet-jimxu-quddiem-gabi-calleja
Melvic Zammit | 08:14 | 20.10.2013
Għalkemm aktar ma jgħaddi ż-żmien qed ikun hawn ġenituri li jersqu ’l quddiem biex jaraw kif jistgħu jagħtu s-sapport lil uliedhom li huma gay, għad hawn oħrajn li juru reżistenza biex jaċċettawhom.
“Kelna żagħżugħ li spiċċa barra bil-pyjama fil-ħdax ta’ bil-lejl, mingħajr xejn. Kellna każ ieħor fejn omm issajjar għal bintha separatament mill-oħrajn ma jmurx b’xi mod tikkontamina lill-kumplament tal-membri tal-familja. Ma jonqosx is-swat li jsir fuq żgħażagħ għax huma dak li huma”. Dawn il-każijiet, skont Gabi Calleja, il-kordinatriċi tal-Malta Gay Rights Movement, qed isiru l-eċċezzjoni iktar milli r-regola.
Melvic Zammit | 08:14 | 20.10.2013
Għalkemm aktar ma jgħaddi ż-żmien qed ikun hawn ġenituri li jersqu ’l quddiem biex jaraw kif jistgħu jagħtu s-sapport lil uliedhom li huma gay, għad hawn oħrajn li juru reżistenza biex jaċċettawhom.
“Kelna żagħżugħ li spiċċa barra bil-pyjama fil-ħdax ta’ bil-lejl, mingħajr xejn. Kellna każ ieħor fejn omm issajjar għal bintha separatament mill-oħrajn ma jmurx b’xi mod tikkontamina lill-kumplament tal-membri tal-familja. Ma jonqosx is-swat li jsir fuq żgħażagħ għax huma dak li huma”. Dawn il-każijiet, skont Gabi Calleja, il-kordinatriċi tal-Malta Gay Rights Movement, qed isiru l-eċċezzjoni iktar milli r-regola.
Malta Today: Auxiliary Bishop warns against ‘equating’ civil unions with marriage
Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna says ‘marriage is for the family’.
http://maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Auxiliary-Bishop-warns-against-equating-civil-unions-with-marriage-20131020
Sunday 20 October 2013 - 13:03 by a Staff Reporter
Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna.
Equating civil unions with marriage was "illogical" and "deceptive", according to Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna.
Referring to the Civil Liberties Act which is at its second reading in parliament, Scicluna urged MPs to engage in a thorough debate and reflection before equating civil unions with marriage.
http://maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Auxiliary-Bishop-warns-against-equating-civil-unions-with-marriage-20131020
Sunday 20 October 2013 - 13:03 by a Staff Reporter
Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna.
Equating civil unions with marriage was "illogical" and "deceptive", according to Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna.
Referring to the Civil Liberties Act which is at its second reading in parliament, Scicluna urged MPs to engage in a thorough debate and reflection before equating civil unions with marriage.
Times: Gay union Bill ‘illogical, deceptive’, says bishop
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131020/local/Gay-union-Bill-illogical-deceptive-says-bishop.491048
Making a point at the Pride march. Photo: Darrin Zammit Lupi
Making a point at the Pride march. Photo: Darrin Zammit Lupi
Equating same-sex unions with marriage is “illogical” and “deceptive”, according to Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna.
In a letter to The Sunday Times of Malta, he urges MPs to reflect and engage in a thorough debate before voting out the “traditional concept of conjugality” when deciding on a Civil Unions Bill proposed by the Government.
Mgr Scicluna says: “In a nutshell marriage is for the family. It is not simply a socially recognised partnership. The proposed bill intends to put all this behind us in the name of the asserted equality of same sex (homosexual) couples to couples of different sex (heterosexual) couples.
“This asserted equality is a no-brainer when we deal with human dignity and the right to freedom from unjust discrimination. It does not stand the test of logic when it comes to the openness to the gift of parenthood.”
In a nutshell, marriage is for the family. It is not simply a socially recognised partnership
Independent: The Civil Union Bill
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2013-10-20/opinions/the-civil-union-bill-2935586824/
Sunday, 20 October 2013, 08:35 , by Michael Asciak
The Civil Union Bill has just been published. To tell the truth it has not sprung any surprises at all, as the matter dealt with by the Bill has been discussed for some time now. It basically transfers to a homosexual couple most of the legal rights associated with heterosexual marriage. Today, it is incumbent on a civil society to formally recognise the relationship between a homosexual couple, keeping in mind that they have a right to choose the way in which they want their life to unfold. I however have deep reservations when homosexual lobbies choose to claim equality in areas that are not theirs by nature.
Sunday, 20 October 2013, 08:35 , by Michael Asciak
The Civil Union Bill has just been published. To tell the truth it has not sprung any surprises at all, as the matter dealt with by the Bill has been discussed for some time now. It basically transfers to a homosexual couple most of the legal rights associated with heterosexual marriage. Today, it is incumbent on a civil society to formally recognise the relationship between a homosexual couple, keeping in mind that they have a right to choose the way in which they want their life to unfold. I however have deep reservations when homosexual lobbies choose to claim equality in areas that are not theirs by nature.
YouTube: Seattle+The Washington Bus+Jeanne+Alissa = wedding proposal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umdepNP5yVw
Published on Aug 9, 2013
On July 30th I was pulled out of a meeting because of a "disturbance" on the street. When I got to my office window, I saw my girlfriend standing on a bus across the street. What came next was the most genuine, funny, heartfelt marriage proposal.
Published on Aug 9, 2013
On July 30th I was pulled out of a meeting because of a "disturbance" on the street. When I got to my office window, I saw my girlfriend standing on a bus across the street. What came next was the most genuine, funny, heartfelt marriage proposal.
Malta Right Now: Abbozz ta' Liġi biex l-istess drittijiet li bħalissa japplikaw għaż-żwieġ jingħataw lill-koppji tal-istess sess
... iżda dan mhux qed jissejjaħ żwieġ
http://www.maltarightnow.com/?module=news&at=Abbozz+ta'+Li%26%23289%3Bi+biex+l-istess+drittijiet+li+b%26%23295%3Balissa+japplikaw+g%26%23295%3Ba%26%23380%3B-%26%23380%3Bwie%26%23289%3B+jing%26%23295%3Bataw+lill-koppji+tal-istess+sess&t=a&aid=99851394&cid=19
14 t' Ottubru, 2013 12:19 CET minn Alessa PSAILA ZAMMIT
Dalgħodu l-Gvern ippublika l-Liġi dwar l-Unjoni Ċivili, li se tagħti d-drittijiet u l-obbligi kollha taż-żwieġ lill-koppji tal-istess sess li jidħlu f'unjoni ċivili. F'konferenza tal-aħbarijiet, il-Ministru Helena Dalli ppreżentat id-dettalji dwar l-Abbozz tal-Liġi, li kif spjegat il-Ministru Dalli, jagħti d-drittijiet li bħalissa japplikaw għaż-żwieġ lill-koppji tal-istess sess, inkluż l-adozzjoni tat-tfal, iżda li mhux qed jissejjaħ żwieġ.
http://www.maltarightnow.com/?module=news&at=Abbozz+ta'+Li%26%23289%3Bi+biex+l-istess+drittijiet+li+b%26%23295%3Balissa+japplikaw+g%26%23295%3Ba%26%23380%3B-%26%23380%3Bwie%26%23289%3B+jing%26%23295%3Bataw+lill-koppji+tal-istess+sess&t=a&aid=99851394&cid=19
14 t' Ottubru, 2013 12:19 CET minn Alessa PSAILA ZAMMIT
Dalgħodu l-Gvern ippublika l-Liġi dwar l-Unjoni Ċivili, li se tagħti d-drittijiet u l-obbligi kollha taż-żwieġ lill-koppji tal-istess sess li jidħlu f'unjoni ċivili. F'konferenza tal-aħbarijiet, il-Ministru Helena Dalli ppreżentat id-dettalji dwar l-Abbozz tal-Liġi, li kif spjegat il-Ministru Dalli, jagħti d-drittijiet li bħalissa japplikaw għaż-żwieġ lill-koppji tal-istess sess, inkluż l-adozzjoni tat-tfal, iżda li mhux qed jissejjaħ żwieġ.
Huffington Post: PJ Raval, Documentary Filmmaker, Talks About 'Before You Know It' [Gay Elderly]
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/19/elderly-lgbt-documentary_n_4110108.html
The Huffington Post | By James Nichols
Posted: 10/19/2013 7:53 am EDT
"BEFORE YOU KNOW IT" is a feature-length documentary that examines the lives and experiences of three elderly members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community and their place with the larger spectrum of LGBT identities. The film has already completed production and has been showcased in some capacity on an international scale.
L-Orizzont: Pressjoni fil-PN għal ‘free vote’ fil-Parlament dwar l-Unjoni ċivili
http://www.orizzont.com.mt/oldarticles/article111944.html
17.10.2013 minn Albert Gauci Cunningham
Intant minn sorsi informati sew jidher li bħalissa hemm diżgwid serju fi ħdan il-grupp Parlamentari Nazzjonalista b’uħud ma jridux jafu bl-abbozz u huma riżolti li jivvotaw kontra bħall-Viċi-Kap Nazzjonalista Beppe Fenech Adami, George Pullicino u Carm Mifsud Bonnici, filwaqt li hemm oħrajn li huma favur bħal Claudette Buttigieg, Kirsty Debono u Mario Demarco. L-istess sorsi qalulna li hemm ukoll dawk id-deputati li huma kontra żżda li xorta jixtiequ jivvotaw favur biex il-PN “ma jidhirx ikrah jew li huwa kontra minoranza f’pajjiżna”. Jidher ukoll, skont is-sorsi tagħna, li bosta qegħdin juru l-għadab tagħhom fil-PN li ma kinux konsultati dwar dan l-abbozz ta’ liġi u li ma kinux ikkonsultati mill-Kunsill Konsultattiv li ħa ħsieb li jfassal din il-liġi.
17.10.2013 minn Albert Gauci Cunningham
L-abbozz ta’ liġi ppreżentat mill-Gvern u li jipproponi Unjoni Ċivili għal koppji tal-istess sess, bid-drittijiet u d-dmirijiet kollha ugwali bħal żwieġ ċivili bejn koppja eterosesswali, jidher li ħasad mhux ftit lill-Partit Nazzjonalista, tant li sal-bieraħ, tlett ijiem wara li kien ippublikat l-abbozz, il-PN kien għadu l-uniku Partit f’Malta li ma kellux reazzjoni għal dak propost. Minn informazzjoni li għandu l-orizzont jidher li bħalissa qiegħda ssir pressjoni kbira, speċjalment minn kwartieri soċjalment konservattivi fi ħdan il-PN, biex il-Membri Parlamentari Nazzjonalisti jkollhom ‘free vote’ fil-Parlament meta dan l-istess abbozz jersaq għall-approvazzjoni tal-Kamra tar-Rappreżentanti.
Intant minn sorsi informati sew jidher li bħalissa hemm diżgwid serju fi ħdan il-grupp Parlamentari Nazzjonalista b’uħud ma jridux jafu bl-abbozz u huma riżolti li jivvotaw kontra bħall-Viċi-Kap Nazzjonalista Beppe Fenech Adami, George Pullicino u Carm Mifsud Bonnici, filwaqt li hemm oħrajn li huma favur bħal Claudette Buttigieg, Kirsty Debono u Mario Demarco. L-istess sorsi qalulna li hemm ukoll dawk id-deputati li huma kontra żżda li xorta jixtiequ jivvotaw favur biex il-PN “ma jidhirx ikrah jew li huwa kontra minoranza f’pajjiżna”. Jidher ukoll, skont is-sorsi tagħna, li bosta qegħdin juru l-għadab tagħhom fil-PN li ma kinux konsultati dwar dan l-abbozz ta’ liġi u li ma kinux ikkonsultati mill-Kunsill Konsultattiv li ħa ħsieb li jfassal din il-liġi.
iNews Malta: L-unjoni ċivili tagħti ħafna mid-drittijiet taż-żwieġ
http://www.inewsmalta.com/dart/20131014-unjoni-ivili-tag-ti-afna-mid-drittijiet-ta-wie
07:04 | 14.10.2013
Il-liġi dwar l-unjoni ċivili li se titnieda dalgħodu tagħti lill-koppji gay ħafna mid-drittijiet li għandhom koppji miżżewġa. Imkejjen qalu ma’ inewsmalta.com li kważi kważi wieħed jista’ jgħid li din tagħti d-drittijiet kollha li jirriżultaw minn żwieġ ċivili.
Fost oħrajn huwa mistenni li l-koppji jgawdu mill-istess rati ta’ taxxa li jgawdu koppji miżżewġa u jkunu jistgħu anke jingħaqdu fl-unjoni ċivili permezz ta’ ċerimonja ċivili quddiem uffiċjali tar-reġistru pubbliku jew sindku.
07:04 | 14.10.2013
Il-liġi dwar l-unjoni ċivili li se titnieda dalgħodu tagħti lill-koppji gay ħafna mid-drittijiet li għandhom koppji miżżewġa. Imkejjen qalu ma’ inewsmalta.com li kważi kważi wieħed jista’ jgħid li din tagħti d-drittijiet kollha li jirriżultaw minn żwieġ ċivili.
Fost oħrajn huwa mistenni li l-koppji jgawdu mill-istess rati ta’ taxxa li jgawdu koppji miżżewġa u jkunu jistgħu anke jingħaqdu fl-unjoni ċivili permezz ta’ ċerimonja ċivili quddiem uffiċjali tar-reġistru pubbliku jew sindku.
Times: Gay marriage by any name
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131019/letters/Gay-marriage-by-any-name.490964#.UmN9cXA6KSo
Saturday, October 19, 2013, 00:01 by Karl Consiglio, Sliema
I read with interest that same-sex couples will now be able to ‘tie the knot’ in a civil union in front of a mayor or public official, much on the same lines as a civil marriage, and that provisions are also being made for the adoption of children by such couples.
It sounds pretty much like everything the gay community could wish for. So why refer to it as a civil union rather than a civil marriage? What is still standing in the way?
Could it be Labour’s fear of losing votes for taking a concrete stand on something and simply calling it by its name?
Saturday, October 19, 2013, 00:01 by Karl Consiglio, Sliema
I read with interest that same-sex couples will now be able to ‘tie the knot’ in a civil union in front of a mayor or public official, much on the same lines as a civil marriage, and that provisions are also being made for the adoption of children by such couples.
It sounds pretty much like everything the gay community could wish for. So why refer to it as a civil union rather than a civil marriage? What is still standing in the way?
Could it be Labour’s fear of losing votes for taking a concrete stand on something and simply calling it by its name?
Saturday, 19 October 2013
Times: French court backs gay marriage
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131018/world/french-court-backs-gay-marriage.490888
Friday, October 18, 2013, 12:03 by PA
France's constitutional court has ruled that mayors cannot refuse to carry out same-sex marriages.
The ruling comes a month after seven mayors contested France's new law allowing for gay marriage. The mayors say it should have allowed local authorities to opt out on the grounds of freedom of conscience.
In France, marriages can only be made official by city authorities, though many couples celebrate religious weddings, too.
Friday, October 18, 2013, 12:03 by PA
France's constitutional court has ruled that mayors cannot refuse to carry out same-sex marriages.
The ruling comes a month after seven mayors contested France's new law allowing for gay marriage. The mayors say it should have allowed local authorities to opt out on the grounds of freedom of conscience.
In France, marriages can only be made official by city authorities, though many couples celebrate religious weddings, too.
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