OTTAWA, Feb 22 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Bill C-23, which proposes to give all significant benefits of marriage to homosexuals living together in a sexual relationship, passed second reading yesterday and has been sent to committee for review. All 31 Reform MPs in the House of Commons yesterday voted against the bill. 5 Progressive Conservatives, 10 Bloc Québécois, and 1 Independent voted against the bill as well. Despite the fact that Prime Minister Chretien would not allow a free vote on the measure, 14 courageous Liberals voted against the government legislation, knowing that their actions leave them prey to party disciplinary measures such as demotions within various posts.
In total, 116 Liberals voted in favour of the bill (89% of Liberals who voted yesterday), 10 Progressive Conservatives (67%), 6 NDP (100%), and 28 Bloc Québécois (74%).
LifeSite spoke with Tom Wappel, one of the Liberal MP’s who voted to defend the family regardless of censure. Wappel warned that despite the busy schedule of the justice committee, the bill is likely to be fast-tracked perhaps taking only days to return to the House. Wappel noted that remarkable public outcry to the legislation has not yet materialized. Wappel also noted that disciplinary measures against the 13 were unlikely since the government only retains a majority by 6 or 8 seats.
Of note, a majority of MP’s also voted yesterday to stifle debate on the issue, effectively denying the public a voice.
A complete list of votes by party is available on request from LifeSiteNews – [email protected]
See where your MP voted on letting Bill C-23 proceed.
See where your MP voted on curtailing debate on Bill C-23
ACTION ITEM: Pro-family groups have encouraged supporters to contact their MP’s immediately to urge them to vote against Bill C-23 at its upcoming 3rd reading. Pro-family supporters may also wish to contact the justice committee to request a travelling assessment of the concerns of Canadians on the matter and members of the federal cabinet. Finally it is suggested that you write letters to local newspapers outlining the seriousness of the threat to the family and encouraging action.
Justice Clerk Roger Préfontaine
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Justice Committee Chair Andy Scott
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Prime Minister. Jean Chrétien
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Justice Minister. Anne McLellan
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Finance Minister Paul Martin
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Treasury Board Pres. Lucienne Robillard
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Minister of Human Resources Jane Stewart
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Minister of Citizenship Elinor Caplan
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