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MP Keddy says Yes to same-sex bill
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| Contributor | Monsieur |
| Last Edited | Monsieur Feb 01, 2005 05:07pm |
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| Category | News |
| News Date | Tuesday, February 1, 2005 06:00:00 AM UTC0:0 |
| Description | HALIFAX — Federal politician Gerald Keddy says he has decided to go against his party's wishes and vote to legalize marriage for same-sex couples.
Keddy, who represents Nova Scotia's South Shore district for the Conservatives, said he had not made up his mind until Tuesday, when the proposed legislation was introduced in the House of Commons.
Keddy said he plans to support the Liberals' bill because it applies only to civil marriages, and clearly states that religious groups will not be forced to marry gay couples.
"That's what's in front of me and I'm quite pleased to see the clarity of language," Keddy said.
The Liberal government has promised a free vote on the bill, but cabinet ministers are expected to support it.
Keddy does not expect any fallout from his party about his decision, even though Conservative Leader Stephen Harper has been vocal about his support for the traditional definition of marriage.
"You know, it is a matter of conscience for people," Keddy said.
Like Keddy, New Democrat members of Parliament Peter Stoffer and Alexa McDonough plan to side with the Liberals and vote in favour of the same-sex marriage legislation.
Liberals Geoff Regan, Michael Savage and Mark Eyking are also voting Yes.
The Nova Scotia MPs voting against the bill include Liberal Rodger Cuzner, and Conservatives Bill Casey and Peter MacKay.
But Liberal MP Robert Thibault has yet to announce his decision. Thibault said he's "predisposed" to supporting the bill, but he's facing pressure from religious groups in his riding. |
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