By 3 News online staff
The supporters of Louisa Wall’s same-sex marriage bill made their views clear in Parliament last night before votes were cast.
Two-thirds of the 121-strong Parliament voted in favour of it being legal for same-sex couples to get married.
Ms Wall received a rousing applause after her speech to a near-full House, where she said her bill is underpinned by love and fairness of opportunity.
National’s Nikki Kaye, Labour’s David Clark and the Green Party’s Kevin Hague made passionate speeches on the bill.
Ms Kaye said no New Zealander should be denied from marrying the person they love.
“I know how important this bill is for many young New Zealanders. Young New Zealanders overwhelmingly support this bill.
She said she pledged here support because it was the right thing to do.
Dr Clark, who is a minister of the Presbyterian Church, said he has been lobbied heavily from both sides of the argument.
“It is for those people who will be inheriting and carrying forward the institution of marriage that I am supporting the bill,” he said.
One of the most passionate speeches of the night was Mr Hague who said the bill helped to address the burden and misery and potential suicide of young gay, lesbian and same-sex couples.
Mr Hague said the law currently sends a message that same-sex couples are “less than normal”.
“What is so dreadfully wrong with allowing other New Zealanders of another disposition to make a long-term public commitment to the person they love.”
He finished with a message to other MPs: “Your vote on this bill will stand against this bill forever. It is up to you on what side of history you will be remembered.”
The bill has been sent to a select committee before it is returned to the House for its second reading.
3 News