"It's time for New Zealand to recognise the
diversity of relationships in society today," said David
Friar on behalf of the Auckland Campaign for Civil
Unions.
Friar was appearing before the Select Committee
hearing submissions on the Civil Union and Relationships
Bill, in Auckland this morning.
"These Bills will address
unjustified discrimination. Gays and lesbians will be able
to publicly affirm their commitment to each other, and have
the law recognise that commitment."
"And all couples,
whatever the legal form of their relationship, will have the
same legal benefits, entitlements and
responsibilities."
"The Bills will not legalise same-sex
marriage. They are a practical and moderate response to the
unjustified discrimination in the current law."
A copy of
the Campaign's submission to the Select Committee (without
appendices) can be viewed here:
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