We call on MEP candidates & parties to break the silence

Charles Trico (left), Equality Rights Group GGR Secretary, has today called on “all MEP candidates asking for votes from Gibraltarians to say exactly where they stand regarding the rights of gays and lesbians in this community. Whilst the gay community has received not inconsiderable support from some MEPs, notably Graham Watson, as far as public statements during these European elections are concerned, so far all we have heard is a deafening silence on their position regarding gay people’s rights from each and every person who has been presented to the public asking for their votes.”

“It’s not as if there is nothing to have an opinion about any more, is it?” asked Mr Trico, referring to the presently lively topic of age of consent before Parliament, as well as to the challenge going before the courts regarding Government’s refusal to grant joint tenancy to a same-sex couple.

“We are seeing politicians come and politicians go. Why is it we continue to have to prompt them to make statements about the rights of sexual minorities? It’s about time that, at election time, they were clear and upfront with the voting public, whichever way they think.”

“Whether it’s progress or otherwise, it appears that it’s the politicians who now need help in ‘coming out’” on issues which are not necessarily ‘convenient’ for them”, ended Mr Trico.