Sexual orientation and divorce

I refer to Marisa Micallef Leyson's article "Gay radical and refreshing" (July 11).

Like Ms Leyson and many others, I too am relieved to see a government minister supporting full inclusion, total anti-discrimination and the normalisation of gays' situation to help them have more stable relationships in their everyday lives.

It is natural that these matters are supported.

The EU's policies regarding employment, social inclusion and anti-discrimination are clear. They are backed by half a dozen directives and anti-discrimination campaigns aimed at the elimination of all forms of discrimination in employment and civil society. This is backed, furthermore, by the European Union Social Charter itself. Sexual orientation has full coverage.

All these directives must also be adopted by Malta. As a member of the European Union, gays in Malta may rest assured that they have the full force of the EU behind them. Their protection in employment and society is guaranteed.

As Ms Leyson said, we all know someone who is gay. I do, and I am honestly pleased to see progress in our country.

On a separate, but not so far off issue, consider this:

What about heterosexual separated people in Malta who want to re-marry, and cannot, because there is no divorce in Malta? Who guarantees their equality, protection, inclusion, anti-discrimination and rights in society today? Does the EU have any directives on this? Of course not. It is unheard of that heterosexual people cannot get married if they want to. Nor can they impose divorce in Malta. What a predicament. But at least, a level playing field is warranted.