19 August 2014
Demand for Same-Sex ‘Marriage’ Underwhelms
Family First NZ says that one year on from the marriage law being politically manipulated, the demand for same-sex
marriages has been underwhelming with just 318 same-sex couples rushing to take advantage of the new definition to
formalise their relationship for the first time. The numbers have been boosted by overseas couples and transfers from
civil unions. This compares to over 19,000 marriages.
“It is ironic that supporters of redefining marriage are relying on a boost in tourism to justify the change. The whole process has meant that marriage in law has become meaningless and is no longer
commonly or traditionally conceived, but conceived by politics and political correctness,” says Bob McCoskrie, National
Director of Family First NZ.
“This has been reinforced by the callous nature with which The Edge radio station has treated marriage with its latest competition.”
“In ramming through this law change in a shameful way without due consideration, and with no clear public mandate,
politicians committed an arrogant act of cultural vandalism. Despite their grandiose view, the politicians never had the
authority to redefine marriage - and their efforts only mask reality. The equality cause is not advanced by destroying
institutions. Equality should respect difference, not destroy it.”
“As Greens co-leader Metiria Turei argued, marriage is a specific culturally and historically bound institution,” says
Mr McCoskrie.
‘The real outcomes of this law change are yet to come to fruition – namely, attempts to further implement ‘marriage
equality’ to allow polygamy and group marriage, and the right to freedom of conscience for celebrants, venues, and
service providers being threatened as is happening at an increasing rate in overseas jurisdictions.”
“20,000 voters signed the Marriage Pledge in 2013 which will influence the way they vote in the upcoming general election. This could affect the outcome of some
of the marginal seats, and if the election is a close call.”
ENDS