[Greens-Media] MR - Greens rock-solid on Marriage Equality

[Johnson, Emily (Sen S. Hanson-Young)]

Thursday 2 September 2010

MEDIA RELEASE

Greens rock-solid on Marriage Equality


Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young says her party's commitment to
marriage equality is rock-solid, reaffirming her pledge to re-introduce
the Marriage Equality Bill on the first day of the new Parliament.

The Greens Spokesperson on Sexuality and Gender Identity said it was
clear throughout the election campaign that there was genuine community
consensus to have the discrimination espoused in the Marriage Act
removed.

"The Greens are the only party in the Parliament with a commitment to
delivering equal marriage rights for all, and we will push for this in
the next parliamentary term, regardless of who forms Government.  Our
commitment on this issue is second to none," said Senator Hanson-Young.

"I will re-introduce my Marriage Equality Bill on the first day of the
new Parliament, and will continue to pressure both sides of politics to
grant their members a conscious vote on this important issue.

"The fact that an agreement could not be reached with the Labor Party on
equal marriage and other Green policy priorities does not preclude the
Greens from continuing to promote these issue.  In fact the agreement
expressly notes this," said Senator Hanson-Young on the Greens' decision
to support a minority Labor Government.  

"The arrangement around improved parliamentary processes ensures that
minor parties and independents have more of an ability to strive for
change.

"This exciting new political terrain that we have entered ensures that
with enough community support and parliamentary pressure, progressive
outcomes for the good of the community can be achieved," said Senator
Hanson-Young.  


Media contact: Emily Johnson on 0427 604 760