Advocates welcome motion to bring back same-sex marriage debate

Tasmanian equality advocates today welcome the intention to motion the Legislative Council to bring back the Same-Sex Marriage Bill 2012 to examine new information.

“In the last 12 months new information has come forward that directly addresses and clarifies concerns made in the legislative debate last year.” Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality convener, Andrew Badcock said.

With the release of the NSW report which highlights the capacity for States to legislate same-sex marriages, and the potential for new information from the soon to be released report by the Tasmanian Law of Reform Institute, advocates hope it will address the genuine concerns by the legislative councillors who voted against the bill in 2012.

“We respectfully urge the legislative councillors to support the motion and examine recent developments and information continually being made available.”

Mr Badcock also highlighted the need for a civil debate and to respect different opinions.

“There needs to be respect from all sides for those who may or may not support same-sex marriage recognition” Mr Badcock stated, “but it is also important to remember that marriage for same-sex couples is a social justice issue and not a moral one.”

“Many couples and families wish to have their marriages – which are built on the strongest foundations of love and commitment – recognised by society and the law.”

In the last twelve months more countries such as New Zealand, France, the UK and other countries have legalised these marriages.

Also released on the legislative council website is a petition collecting Tasmanians’ signatures in support of this motion.

The petition requests the Legislative Council reinstate the Same-Sex Marriage Bill 2012 back into discussion based on the new information.
Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality convener, Andrew Badcock