Ottawa changing gay marriage reference to Supreme Court
In Ottawa, the Canadian federal government is altering its request to the Supreme Court for a ruling on gay marriage. Justice Minister Irwin Cotler announced he wants the court to clarify "whether the opposite-sex requirement is, with regard to the common-law definition of marriage, compatible with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom." Cotler noted that the move didn't shift the government's position though. "Our support for same-sex marriage has not changed," he said, adding "we are aware that there is division in this country." Cotler and Prime Minister Martin have been under intense pressure from same-sex marriage opponents to buy some time by modifying the court reference. The change makes it difficult for the court to stick to its currently scheduled hearing date of April 16 for oral arguments from interested parties.
Canada.com
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