[Greens-Media] Remove all same-sex discrimination now: Greens

[Clark, Gemma (Sen S. Hanson-Young)]

Tuesday 5 August 2008

Remove all same-sex discrimination now: Greens 

Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has reiterated the call for all forms
of discrimination against same-sex couples to be removed from
Commonwealth legislation while attending a public hearing to inquire
into same-sex couples' rights today in Sydney.

"It is encouraging to see so many witnesses appearing today who support
changes to legislation to provide equality for same-sex couples," said
Senator Hanson-Young.

Broad support has been expressed for the Human Rights and Equal
Opportunity Commission's recommendations in its same-sex entitlements
report from a range of witnesses at today's hearing.

"Today we have repeatedly heard witnesses refuting the argument that to
recognise same-sex couples in Commonwealth legislation somehow
undermines the institution of marriage," said Senator Hanson-Young.

"In particular, the Uniting Church and its representative Reverend
Elenie Poulos clearly stated that they do not believe that the inclusion
of same-sex couples in the Family Law Amendment (De Facto Financial
Matters and Other Measures) Bill would undermine marriage in any way."

Senator Hanson-Young, who is a voting member of the Senate Standing
Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, said the Greens would
move amendments in the Senate to ensure all forms of discrimination
against same-sex couples are removed. 

"The thrust of today's hearings is that we need to make these
legislative changes to ensure same-sex couples enjoy the same rights,
and we need to do it as soon as possible. There should be no further
delay in passing this legislation," she said.

"We're talking about an issue of human rights and social justice here,
so the Greens will move to achieve equality for all couples, regardless
of their sexuality or gender.

"Extending rights to same-sex couples does not weaken the privilege that
opposite-sex couples already enjoy," concluded Senator Hanson-Young.

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is attending the following public hearings
this week: 
Tuesday 5 August - Sydney Masonic Centre, 66 Goulburn St, Sydney
Wednesday 6 August - St James Court Conference Centre, 12 Batman St,
Melbourne
Thursday 7 August - Committee Room 2S1, Parliament House, Canberra

For further information please call Gemma Clark on 0427 604 760