Mr. Speaker, the member has raised some interesting points. Looking for that respect for the differences between Canadians is extremely important and to deal with this in a sensitive and respectful fashion is very important, as is the aspect of registering civil unions, et cetera and protecting that definition of marriage, which I think is at the essence of the debate that has been going on, not only in Parliament but in Canada.
I noted during the member's discourse though that in referring to relationships between two people he left out the one element of the procreative factor. The Ontario Court of Appeal identified three foundations of marriage being: the commitment, the contractual and the procreative. However I am sorry but they summarily dismissed the procreative aspect because gay persons could have a child through a previous marriage or through adoption and therefore it really was not an issue. Quite frankly, it is an issue.
My grandmother passed away this summer. She had 3 daughters, 10 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Canadians I think understand that there are some differences, that it is related to the procreative element of marriage and that is something to be celebrated in Canada and around the world because it is the basis on which society sustains itself.
I would appreciate the member's comments.