AD proposals on gay rights

Alternattiva Demokratika - the Green Party has drawn up its proposals on gay and lesbian rights, which will form part of the Green Party's manifesto to be approved in October.

The proposals were presented during a seminar yesterday, in which the Malta Gay Rights Movement took part.

Jurgen Balzan, the Green Party's spokesman on civil rights, said the proposals include state recognition for the rights and duties of gay and lesbian couples who have lived together for more than three years, eliminating discrimination between homosexual and heterosexual couples in such matters as social welfare and housing.

They also outlined various ways to ensure that there was no discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, whether in the education system, or at work.

"The propagation of homophobia and intolerance against gays and lesbians and sexual minorities should become a criminal offence," the proposals continue.

Mr Balzan referred to the commitment of European Green Parties in favour of gay and lesbian rights.

"Green parties throughout Europe have always supported gay and lesbian rights. In fact the Greens have been behind various parliamentary initiatives both at national and European level, in favour of more rights for the gay and lesbian community.

"AD is the only party which has declared a clear position in favour of more rights for the Maltese gay and lesbian community. The other two parties have completely ignored issues facing the gay and lesbian community," he said.