Same-sex adoption - Greens offer Premier quick passage of legislation

Greens MP Lee Rhiannon has called on Premier Nathan Rees to endorse the recommendations of the Upper House parliamentary report on same-sex adoption, and introduce the required legislation when the NSW parliament resumes in September (p. 2, Sydney Morning Herald today).

"The Greens are ready to work with the government to ensure the quick passing of same-sex adoption legislation," Ms Rhiannon said.

"A combined vote of Labor and Greens MPs would assure the passage of such legislation through the Upper House.

"The Upper House report puts the pressure back onto the Premier to honour his government's commitment to legalise same sex adoption

"The committees work clearly shows that same-sex adoption is in the best interests of the child.

"The Standing Committee on Law and Justice has undertaken important work and their clear recommendations provide a road map on how to implement same sex adoption in NSW.

"The key outstanding change still required in order for same-sex couples to achieve equality under NSW law is adoption reform. Premier Rees should be now working to facilitate this.

"Surely Mr Rees does not want to be remembered as the Premier who was the roadblock to removing the last major discriminatory legislation on same sex issues?

"The gay and lesbian community have puts years of work into this issue and after the 2007 election it was widely understood that the government would bring in legislation to allow same-sex couples to adopt.

"Western Australia has changed its laws on adoption and it is time NSW caught up.

"The inquiry's recommendation takes on added significance as it was reported in May that Upper House MP Rev Fred Nile had won the support of Premier Rees not to back such legislative reform.

"Now the Premier has the Upper House report he should demonstrate that he has not done a deal with Rev Nile and move quickly to work with the Greens to make the necessary legislative changes," Ms Rhiannon said.

Contact: Greens MP Lee Rhiannon 9230 3551, 0427 861 568