Last stand against gay marriage in Newfoundland and Labrador

The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguements from a a conservative preacher, Pastor Gordon Young today.  Young is expected to argue what has already been presented in other provincial high courts and likely try to point to Newfoundland's long tradition of support for religious institutions. 

Rick Barnes,
Editor, GLBTQ

His arguement should fail as it has in seven provincial high courts to date.  What makes this case different from previous cases in other Canadian jurisdictions is that the federal government is o­nside with the two lesbian couples petitioning to change the law.

This will also be the first time a provincial Supreme Court will have the benefit of the Supreme Court of Canada's recent opinion.  That court recently stated that there was no legal or constitutional reason to prevent the Parliament of Canada granting same sex couples the right to marry.

On what could be a redundant issue, Newfoundland member of parliament and federal cabinet minister, John Efford will be meeting with church leaders today to discuss same-sex marriage.  Efford has long been against same-sex marriage but will be required to support the extention of marriage to gays and lesbians because he is a cabinet minister.

Efford has said he has to consider if he can vote for the legislation and if not will resign from cabinet.  Late last week a government insider indicated that Efford would tell Church leaders today that he would support the legislation, likely for two reasons.  The first reason being that same-sex marriage will pass in the house and is already legal in seven jurisdictions and would remain to be so no matter what parliament did.

The second reason to support the bill is so he can remain in cabinet.  There ate many benefits to the people of his riding and the province as a result of his cabinet position.  With Newfoundland and Labrador seeking to gain control of off shore oil revenues, having a strong supportive voice inside is helpful.

CBC St. John's reported earlier today that the two couples are hoping for a quick decision.  That should be possible, the high court already has the advantage of seven other decisions and the the recent Supreme Court of Canada opinion to guide it to what should be a positive change for gay and lesbian couples in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Queerlet: Did you know  88% of Canadians live in a province where same-sex marriage is already the law.

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