Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader
In a largely respectful and moving conscience debate late today, Tasmania's Parliament has sent a strong message for support for marriage equality to Canberra.
The Greens Motion to give in-principle support for marriage equality passed the House of Assembly with Liberal amendments that did not affect the substance of the Motion.
In total, 3 Greens MPs, 5 Labor MPs and 7 Liberal MPs voted in support of an end to marriage discrimination for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex Tasmanians.
This vote will reassure Tasmanian LGBTI couples that their Parliament regards their love for each other as equal and supports their right to express their love through marriage if they choose.
The Tasmanian Parliament has now joined New South Wales and Western Australia in expressing support for marriage equality.
While strongly differing views were expressed, they were done so respectfully in the finest spirit of conscience debates.
I want to thank every one of my colleagues for their heartfelt contributions, and those Liberal and Labor Members who worked cooperatively with me to ensure a successful outcome on behalf of LGBTI Tasmanians, their families, friends and all who support equality before the law.