Article Added On: February 02, 2005 - over 7 years ago
Title: Churches still have choices, says PM
Author: MARIA MCCLINTOCK
Publication: Edmonton Sun
Publication Date: January 01, 2005 - over 7 years ago
Faith Groups: Other Christian
Themes: same sex marriage/blessing

Abstract: Prime Minister Paul Martin reassured religious groups his government's draft same-sex bill won't compromise their freedoms. "No church, no temple, no synagogue, no mosque, no religious official will be asked or forced to perform a marriage that is contrary to their beliefs," the PM said following his weekly cabinet meeting.

February 2, 2005

OTTAWA -- Prime Minister Paul Martin moved swiftly yesterday to reassure religious groups his government's draft same-sex bill won't compromise their freedoms. "No church, no temple, no synagogue, no mosque, no religious official will be asked or forced to perform a marriage that is contrary to their beliefs," the PM said following his weekly cabinet meeting.

All cabinet ministers are expected to back the government, but at least one hasn't decided if he can.

"I haven't made a decision ... I'm having some difficulty with the legal implications," said Joe Comuzzi, Minister for Economic Development for Northern Ontario.

Conservative Leader Stephen Harper argued the bill doesn't assure religious freedoms will be protected.

"The bill simply restates a clause that was rejected as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court for being outside of the jurisdiction of the federal government," Harper said in a prepared statement.

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, which represents 40 Protestant denominations and more than 100 ministry organizations, condemned the legislation.

"It is a sad day when the language of husband and wife is removed from federal legislation," said EFC spokesman Bruce Clemenger.

"It is a distorted notion of tolerance and respect that eclipses this distinctive relationship."

The Muslim Canadian Congress said members of their faith should view the bill as a means of protecting minority rights.

"It is incumbent upon us, as a minority, to stand up in solidarity with Canada's gays and lesbians despite the fact that many in our community believe our religion does not condone homosexuality," said MCC president Rizwana Jafri yesterday.