Jason Silver

Friday, February 11th, 2005

From Stephen Harper

February 2005

Dear Fellow Canadian:

Everybody has to draw the line somewhere.  My line is drawn firmly under traditional marriage.

Despite what Paul Martin would like you to believe, the same-sex marriage debate is not over.  On December 9th last year the Supreme Court clearly said that Parliament has the final say on the definition of marriage. 

First and foremost, the Supreme Court ruling is a victory for democracy.  It is a victory for you, the voter, and it is a victory for the Conservative Party of Canada.  Throughout the long debate on this issue, we have always said that the definition of marriage must be decided by elected MPs.

We in the Conservative Party respect the supremacy of Parliament.  Do Paul Martin and the Liberals?  Since this issue first surfaced, the Liberals have done everything they can to keep the definition of marriage from coming to a vote in Parliament.

When it finally does come to a vote, and it will soon, I have committed my party to a free vote.  Paul Martin has refused to show leadership and make the same commitment to his party and the people of Canada.  He is forcing his cabinet ministers to vote for same-sex marriage regardless of their personal views, or the views of their constituents.

Please read on to find out more about my position on this issue.  The Conservative Party has developed a compromise solution, one that I feel is proactive, moderate and represents the broad consensus of ordinary Canadians. 

Thank you for writing and for your interest in helping me and the Conservative Party defend traditional marriage.

Sincerely,

Hon. Stephen Harper, P.C., M.P.
Leader of the Opposition
Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada