The State is obliged to respect the rights of couples living in “a different relationship” but these must not be put at par with married individuals, according to two Church organisations.

Policies must be in favour of a lasting marriage

In a 10-point memorandum for political parties, the Church’s Family Commission and the Cana Movement yesterday said a family based on marriage between a man and a woman offered society greater stability.

The State was obliged to strengthen the family unit but they insisted policies had to make a choice “in favour of a lasting marriage between a man and a woman”.

“The State is obliged to ensure the rights of people living in a different relationship are respected but this does not mean these relationships should be recognised or put on the same footing as a lasting marriage between a man and a woman,” the groups said.

They argued that parents who chose to stay at home to take care of children should be helped and their contribution valued. Policies should favour the birth of more children within families, they added.

“Solidarity between all generations in the family – parents, children and grandparents – should be encouraged. This will have a positive impact.”

They also called for laws and policies to be subjected to a family impact assessment in consultation with groups that champion the family.

The State must also offer courses to help married people hone their communication and childcare skills.