tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-164220232024-03-21T17:59:21.000+00:00EQUALITY RIGHTS GGRNews and Information from Gibraltar on Equality, Human, Gay and Social RightsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-65459416423969418502013-12-17T20:47:00.001+00:002013-12-17T20:47:15.650+00:00THANK YOU FOR VISITING: WE ARE NOW AT WWW.EQUALITYGIB.ORG<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>If you have come to visit Equality Rights Group (previously Gib Gay Rights - GGR) please accept our apologies. We have now moved to www.equalitygib.org.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>In our new dedicated website you will find all the latest information, news, archives and more - including our Facebook and Twitter links.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>We look forward to seeing you there!</b></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-62238622956251543702012-11-12T20:39:00.000+00:002012-11-13T08:58:04.794+00:00<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b>ALVAREZ CALLS ON GIB BUSINESS
& FINANCE TO BE ‘VISIONARY’</b></div>
<br />
Felix Alvarez, Equality Rights group (GGR) Chairman, has sent a message of
congratulations to a Financial Services Summit held in London at the global
headquarters of the reputed law firm Clifford Chance and supported by US
Secretary of State Hilary Clinton. The Summit brings together major global
corporations to discuss the opportunity that increasing equality brings to the
marketplace.<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfvJhEJ3IqbmTGg-t5y1y72IGBYmJWYcQlI1HLa7z91BaHcwj9IHBhbDVhnuDnFjTcmTA1yGLVVHDdstaRzF6v41qqu_yXqfm9poCkTHLQYASawvZ1Hac5mZEdMtPeaLxBScX/s1600/BALDWHITESHIRT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfvJhEJ3IqbmTGg-t5y1y72IGBYmJWYcQlI1HLa7z91BaHcwj9IHBhbDVhnuDnFjTcmTA1yGLVVHDdstaRzF6v41qqu_yXqfm9poCkTHLQYASawvZ1Hac5mZEdMtPeaLxBScX/s200/BALDWHITESHIRT.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chairman Felix Alvarez</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
‘The Finance Centre in Gibraltar should take note of how the marketplace is
moving along with social change all round,’ Mr Alvarez stated. ‘At this
important Summit, the world’s largest companies are coming together to discuss
how the financial services industry can work with and benefit from equality. No
doubt at all, major corporations see not only the altruistic value of this, but
also the market opportunities which are arising as society changes. The
companies participating in the Summit represent eleven major companies with
more than $630 billion (£385 billion) in market capitalisation. <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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‘Likewise, we in Gibraltar must also be visionaries if we wish to stay ahead
of trends and safeguard our economic growth in the present and for the future.
Civil Society includes the Business Sector, not just social non-governmental
organisations. We’re all in this together to see mutual growth and progress for
our people. Activists must be open to this kind of social inclusion and mutual
support,’ Mr Alvarez continued. ‘And we are pleased to note voices such as the
Chief Executive of Barclays confirm that, in his words, ‘Equality is critically
important to Barclays because it helps to ensure that we provide customers and
clients with the best possible service.’<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="yiv2088225539msonormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.95pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">‘I am certain leaders of the
local Business Community in general, as well as the Finance Centre industry in
Gibraltar in particular, will take note of not only this Summit but of what it
means in terms of entrepreneurial opportunity for growing our economic base and
increasing employment as the world itself becomes more competitive for a slice
of a growing ‘equality niche,’ Mr Alvarez ended.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-3727440443023811692012-10-22T11:03:00.003+01:002012-10-22T11:03:29.010+01:00We welcome public inquiry into Johanna Hernandez allegations and new Whistleblower law
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";"><span style="color: #333333;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> ‘Our
society cannot make progress by sweeping difficult issues under the carpet,’
Equality Rights group (GGR) has said in a press statement following the
announcement of a Government open inquiry into allegations of malpractice at
the Dr Giraldi Home by ex-Manager Johanna Hernandez.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="yiv2088225539msonormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.95pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">‘This
matter has been traumatic for both the individuals concerned and for Gibraltar
in general. It is good to see Government setting up an open, public inquiry
into the matter through the services of an independent judge. We therefore
heartily welcome the process as a step forward in our road towards a more fully
participatory democratic society,’ the statement continued.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">‘Alongside this development, it is also right for us to recognise and
welcome the recent introduction of what is known as ‘Whistleblower’
legislation. Having closely studied the provisions of the </span><i><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;">Employment
(Public Interest Disclosure) Act 2012</span></i><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">, it is appropriate for this group to again welcome the new provisions as
an advance in bringing forth a healthier social and political environment for
our country, wherein individuals with serious concerns will be given the
opportunity to raise alarms over perceived malpractice.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="yiv2088225539msonormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.95pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">‘As a
human and civil rights organisation, however, we are concerned that the Act
falls short in certain areas. In particular, and of greatest importance, is
that, although an individual may whistle blow by presenting their concerns to
the Minister for Employment at his offices in the ETB, the provisions do not
appear to obligate Government to institute any sort of open public inquiry into
any allegations. Mechanisms should be announced which would leave the
independence and investigatory nature of the process beyond any doubt at all,
and perhaps this may best be handled via the offices of the Ombudsman who
should receive notification. At the moment, while the new law allows
allegations to be made safely without risk to the individual’s employment
status, there appear to be no clear guarantees that any action at all would
arise. In light of this situation, Government would be wise to take steps to
clearly and publicly delineate the procedures which would safeguard against any
possibility that allegations made under the Act are not merely silently
received and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘shelved’ by a Minister. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="yiv2088225539msonormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 11.95pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">‘Furthermore,
the introduction of this Act brings up questions related to the Official
Secrets Act’s (OFA) operations in conjunction with the new legal provisions and
which have been the subject of GGR’s submission at Command stage but for which
we have had no feedback. Particularly since it is unclear whether the version
of the OFA is as outdated as the government Laws of Gibraltar service online
suggests – that is, the 1939 version, whereas modernisation occurred in the UK
as far back as 1989 to take into account social change over the period. In this
regard, it is perhaps the right moment for the Ministry of Justice to look into
the status of that particular legislation and, as necessary, bring it up to the
relevant modern standards, as has happened in the UK. Clarification on the
situation of civil servants in the interface between the new disclosure
legislation and the OFA would assist in the greater transparency we are all
seeking.’</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-46280913735640545582012-10-18T18:33:00.002+01:002012-10-18T18:33:29.956+01:00
<br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><span style="color: black;">GGR WELCOMES 'POSITIVE BUSINESS'</span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Equality Rights Group (GGR) has today welcomed
the recent decision taken by the La Linea local government to officially
declare La Linea a gay tolerant city.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 10.85pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">'In
Spanish, this carries the implication of acceptance of diversity perhaps more
so than in English. The point is that with this unanimous and cross-party
Motion being moved and approved, La Linea is signalling and opening the door to
new commercial and employment opportunities in not only tourism and
entertainment but in the wider marketplace. There is no reason at all why a new
environment of Equality should not also present Commerce with opportunity.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 10.85pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">'And
we are also now looking forward to the launch very soon of Gibraltar's own
independent initiative, too,' the statement continued. Chairman Felix Alvarez
went on to reveal that GGR has recently approved the establishment of an
independent Gibraltar initiative to be run by local entrepreneurs and to be
known as 'Positive Business'.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 10.85pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">"GGR
welcomes this independent initiative which aims to bring niche commercial
opportunities to Gibraltar's business sector, with the core aim of assisting
the business community identify and best approach the new consumer trends -
both local and foreign - and thus contribute to the Rock's economy.'<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-GB"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-33434084741818671802012-07-17T10:58:00.004+01:002012-07-17T11:00:21.798+01:00Discrimination by some businesses must stop!<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>The group says ‘Business must project a more positive image - and we are keen </strong></span></em><em><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>to work closely with them to this end' </strong></span></em></div>
<br />
‘We are concerned to be receiving more and more reports about humiliating and discriminatory treatment of gay people by some Gibraltar businesses,’ a statement from Equality Rights group has today expressed.<br />
<br />
‘This is by no means the first time we have received such reports. But it is the growing trend which is sounding alarms. As an organisation, it is often difficult for us to verify the circumstances provided to us, yet the consistency of the details and specific locations involved are beginning to add up,' Chairman Felix Alvarez added.<br />
<br />
‘Equality Rights group is hopeful that Government will be introducing legislation soon to outlaw the denial of goods and services to anyone on the basis of particular categories – whether sexual orientation, race, disability or any other grounds.<br />
<br />
‘If the reports we have been receiving are correct – and the volume and consistency over time are leading us in that direction – then we must begin to be conscious of a growing problem. As more and more gay people not only demand but also expect equal treatment, the trend is almost inevitable and we must have provisions in place to halt it.<br />
<br />
‘It is a well-known fact that LGBT citizens have a higher-than-average disposable income. In a competitive environment, it makes little business sense to reject rather than court local consumer sectors. The only effect otherwise is to drive them over the border. While GGR does not presently support the call to boycott certain local businesses that may be implicated, we do call on fairness and reason to be the guiding principles when businesses deal with customers (regardless of their social category). They are, after all, customers first and foremost. It is important to avert repetitions and further escalation in this situation.<br />
<br />
‘Nonetheless, while unseemly sexual or other behaviour from any individual in a public place is unacceptable, common shows of human affection (a kiss, hug, holding of hands or dancing together) should not be grounds for drastic and humiliating action against a client. They’re not for heterosexuals – why should they constitute grounds for humiliation or throwing out of gay people?<br />
<br />
‘If any business considers that such ordinary human affection and gestures in any way violates their ‘family’ business plan focus, we would remind them that LGBT people were born in families, are part of families, and also create families. And GGR - which includes both gay and straight supporters - will not accept homophobic policies from any quarter.<br />
<br />
‘GGR is, nonetheless, certain that Gibraltar businesses are, in the main, sensible and protect their customers’ interests because, in the long haul, they are also the interests of the businesses themselves,' Mr Alvarez said. 'It is also good to see some companies supporting and investing in the Community in which they are rooted. Business must project a more positive image - and as Chairman of GGR, I am always keen to discuss issues and work closely with them to this end.' <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-20907396817807409712012-07-10T21:50:00.001+01:002012-07-10T21:50:40.048+01:00Alvarez: 'We trust we have closure on Age of Consent now'<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>'Equality is a long road, GGR knows this and has the stamina to continue working to achieve more for our citizens'</strong></span></em></div>
<br />
Commenting on the recent statement by the Minister for Justice in Parliament regarding the age of sexual consent, Equality Rights group (GGR) Chairman, Felix Alvarez, has welcomed what he says he trusts is ‘closure on the political and legal process in this following the formal announcement that the age is to be set at 16.’<br />
<br />
‘While we always respected the right of the community at large to decide on the specific applicable age, GGR started the campaign to achieve a sexual-orientation neutral legal age of consent from its very first day. In September 2000, when we launched and issued our first press release, one of the top demands was an equal consent age. Today, after 12 years of campaigning, and almost a year after the Supreme Court declared inequality in this area of law to be unconstitutional, the political process may finally have come to rest. <br />
<br />
‘We must now await details of the manner in which this announcement will be implemented and come into effect through unequivocal parliamentary and legislative provision. <br />
<br />
‘So why did we identify this issue as being so important from day one?’, Mr Alvarez continued.<br />
<br />
‘Because a) we realised it might take time to achieve, but that it was achievable, b) we realised that laying down this foundation was a very visible and clear corner stone not only for transmitting the message of equality but also for fostering open dialogue throughout Gibraltar society, c) the process of achieving equalisation in this would spur modernisation of Gibraltar in the field of human and civil rights generally, and d) gay people deserved better. In a situation where young people feel the pressure of inequality at a seminal moment in their physical and psychological development, sending out a signal of acceptance can only be a good thing. <br />
<br />
‘GGR welcomes Minister Licudi's annnouncement. And we thank government for its commitment to equality. But we also thank all citizens (gay and straight), who by actively participating over the years in arguing for equality, have played a crucial part in making this possible.<br />
<br />
'Equality is a long road. GGR knows this, and has the stamina to continue working to achieve more for our citizens,' Alvarez ended.<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-91366108403053487232012-06-03T18:03:00.003+01:002012-06-03T21:20:27.010+01:00Alvarez reports assault by Guardia Civil<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>‘<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is not an anti-Spanish complaint, it is a call against abuse’</span></strong></em></div>
<br />
Well-known Human Rights defender and Chairman of Equality Rights group (GGR), Felix Alvarez, has filed an official complaint with the Spanish courts following an aggressive attack by a Spanish Civil Guard at the border Customs building.<br />
<br />
‘After enquiring of the RGP by phone, I am informed there is no way of presenting a second report to the Gibraltar police on this incident, given the events took place outside of their jurisdiction. I have therefore sent a letter of information to His Excellency the Governor, the Chief Minister and the Police Commissioner. Whilst no jurisdiction may exist, an assault by a Guardia Civil officer on a Gibraltar citizen must be brought to our own authorities’ attention.<br />
<br />
‘On Friday, 1st June, I was crossing the border at approximately 7.50pm. I was carrying two individual packets of cigarettes in my hands, visibly displayed. As I entered, there were two civil guards, one older (probably mid-30s) and one younger (probably mid-20s). The older gentleman looked me straight in the eyes and immediately asked me to show him what I carried in my hands, so I showed him the two packets of cigarettes. He asked for my identity card, which I produced. He told me to go to the control area as I needed to report the items I was carrying. I did this, and duly provided my I.D. card and showed the items to the lady behind the glass window. I then asked if this meant I could not bring any more small amounts of tobacco for personal use, or words to that effect. I was told that, regardless of the amount, the public was only allowed one purchase (however small) per month. I thanked her and walked by the guards without further ado or comment. I was just stepping out of the Customs building when I heard shouting behind me. Since I suspected that for some reason perhaps something more was required of me, I turned back in good faith and found the older officer shouting at me. I went in closer to answer what appeared to be a question, to find that I was being accused of ‘laughing and smiling’. I was not laughing, but whether I had a smile on my face or not, I am not aware - and if so, it would probably have been nerves. However, I am certainly aware that there exists no legal prohibition either on smiling or on laughing either in the Customs hall on the frontier or anywhere else. In any case, it is fair to say that I do not believe it constitutes justifiable provocation, insult, disrespect or any kind of crime under any applicable law.<br />
<br />
‘As I listened to the guard concerned, he came towards me in a rage, and suddenly and violently seized me by the scruff of the neck. I was stunned and shocked by the suddenness and aggression of his actions. I was then roughly handled, forced and dragged – amidst aggressive shouting by the civil guard and in front of passing members of the public in a humiliating manner – towards a small back room. I was never informed as to why I needed to be taken to that back room. I trust there will be camera footage to demonstrate the incident.<br />
<br />
‘Once the door of the back room was firmly shut, the Civil Guard proceeded to hit me in the face, sides of the neck, and head. I was also punched once on the chest. All the time, the person concerned was shouting that I should wipe the smile off my face – which, given the circumstances is most unlikely that I would have had. At no time whatsoever did I insult, or raise my voice or attempt any violent reaction. Quite the opposite, I am not a physically violent person – I always defend myself with reason and with words. In this case I remained mostly silent, taking the blows, except to say that I didn’t understand why I was being treated in this way.<br />
<br />
‘Having thus been held in the room and alone with this violent individual for what may have been anything from 5 to 10 minutes, he eventually decided to search me from top to bottom by frisking me. This was a last-minute consideration on his part at the end of the aggression, so it is quite clear to me the object of dragging me violently to the room had nothing to do with suspicion of carrying illicit goods as I had, in any case, been allowed to pass through Customs as I have already explained. Since I was carrying nothing untoward on my person, the guard found nothing. Almost at the end, the individual raised his right fist, clenched it and placed it in front of my eyes, saying ‘I’m going to break your face. Now go wherever you want - and report me!’ <br />
<br />
He then opened the door, and shoved me out. As I left, I noticed the younger civil guard was no longer in the passage area where pedestrians pass, but was within the confines of the glass-windowed office adjacent to the Customs walk-in area. Both that young man and the lady with whom I had dealt when declaring my two packets of cigarettes, looked at me as I was thrown out of the small room, and the expression on their faces seemed to register consternation and disbelief. It is probable that the elder civil guard was of a higher rank to the other one. It is clear that noone would have heard or seen any of the goings-on behind the closed door of the room where I was held by the individual – especially since it appears the other guard had removed himself away from the immediate area.<br />
<br />
‘I left Spanish Customs in psychological shock and disbelief. My face, neck and head were hurting and felt hot. I had a very acute, thumping headache. When I got to my destination, the first thing I did was take a few analgesic tablets and tried to take in what had happened. I examined myself physically but I could see no evidence of of the blows I had received. (These were to be confirmed, however, by a medical examination and x-rays the following day, as factual evidence of damage to the cervical area of my neck. I also displayed, a feeling of sickness and dizziness and stiffness in the neck area for all of which I was prescribed various medications). Nonetheless, on the evening of the incident, still affected by the events, I started phoning people I knew so as to inform them. I was, however, too affected physically and mentally to have the strength to do anything further. I needed to recover.<br />
<br />
‘From working in human and civil rights many years, I am trained to take mental note of identifying details and remember them. The guard carried no name or number on his uniform, however. I understand this may be usual with the Civil Guard, though I do not claim to be an expert on the matter. But I remember precisely the time, date and location of the incident and have a clear recollection of the individual’s physical features which I have cited in the police reports. I took immediate written note of all the details as soon as I was able, which was within 15 minutes of the incident.<br />
<br />
The next morning – Saturday 2nd June – I first went for a medical examination both for treatment and in order to obtain an official medical report. I then went to the relevant La Linea Court and presented what is known as a ‘denuncia’ – a formal complaint against the individual in the same terms as I have detailed here. <br />
<br />
‘No person – Gibraltarian or otherwise – should be subjected to this kind of intimidating, violent, unwarranted and unprovoked treatment from any law officer. There is just no excuse. Citizens of all nationalities must be addressed with respect and in accordance with the law. There are bad apples in all parts of all societies, but we must never tolerate violations of people’s rights – from wherever they might come. <br />
<br />
‘At this stage, I have no idea why I was picked on – but from the first moment I got the impression my aggressor seemed to recognise me, though I don’t recall ever having known him. Whether this is a homophobic reaction to my gay rights profile both in Gibraltar and in Spain, or to my defence of human rights generally – Gibraltarian or otherwise – I have no idea right now. During the past 12 years at least, I have never hidden my face from either the Gibraltar or Spanish media, and my photo, face and name have appeared on many occasions on both sides of the border and elsewhere on tv and the written press. I have also given official formal talks on human rights in Spain.<br />
<br />
‘I am conscious of the fact that reporting the incident could well bring danger and consequences to my person. But I am not willing, never have been, and never will be, to remain silent before abuse of power and violations of people’s rights – though on this occasion the issues have touched me directly. <br />
<br />
‘I want to make clear that this is not an anti-Spanish complaint on my part, it is a call against abuse. I have good friends and even family in La Linea and other parts of Spain whom I value and respect, and they are all appalled to hear of this incident . This behaviour, however, is reminiscent of the abuse of power under the old Civil Guard in the times of Franco. But it can and does happen in every country from time to time. <br />
<br />
‘For this reason, I call on anyone who is subjected to illegal and inhuman treatment for whatever reason, and despite the fear that inevitably arises, to never fail to report the incident and ensure that delinquents are properly dealt with by the law.<br />
<br />
‘I trust both the Gibraltar and Spanish authorities will follow up this incident. No Gibraltarian or any other nationality citizen should ever feel unsafe in the hands of those whose responsibility is their protection, and not their abuse.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-51475813234011382252012-05-23T14:32:00.004+01:002012-05-23T14:32:43.897+01:00Protest at International Rights group exclusion of GibraltarA communique from Equality Rights group (GGR) has drawn attention to the exclusion of Gibraltar by ILGA (International Lesbian and Gay Association). <br />
‘ILGA is an influential international campaign organisation with representation at European, International and UN level. It produces Reports on the state of sexual minority human rights, as well as a yearly World Map on homophobia. For years, we have asked ILGA to take note of the LGBT community in Gibraltar, and just as consistently (save with a few exceptions) they have consciously ignored the issue. Recently (for IDAHO) they published their 2012 version of the World Map, again excluding Gibraltar and showing us to form part of Spain. We have therefore sent a strong protest to ILGA – as well as copies to the President of the UK Lib-Dems, Simon Hughes MP, Sir Graham Watson MEP and other political figures. Here is the text by the group’s Chairman:<br />
<br />
'I am writing to protest in the strongest terms - once more - the exclusion of Gibraltar from the recently published ILGA World Map 2012. This is an issue which, over the years, I have raised with ILGA Europe, and which continues to be ignored. It consistently manifests itself not only on the issue of the World Map, but in your various published Reports on the state of gay human rights. <br />
<br />
On various fronts, ILGA's practice and/or policy on this matter makes no sense and reinforces rather than overcomes the central issue of exclusion: a) because your Map claims to be an accurate description of the state of gay human rights at world level - it evidently does not and is therefore a false claim and b) because by refusing to accept the reality - that LGBT people in Gibraltar live under a very different legislative framework to those in the UK - you distort and misrepresent the reality and c) because (as shown in your map) Gibraltar does not form a part of Spain.<br />
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It is unacceptable that LGBT people in Gibraltar should thus be excluded by ILGA, whose central raison d'etre is to combat exclusion and discrimination. Yet your continuing and conscious ignoring (the issue has been raised several times over the years) of an LGBT community only doubly reinforces discrimination: i) on LGBT issues and b) because we form part of a tiny community.<br />
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I look forward to receiving an explanation which is satisfactory regarding this issue. It is high time the matter was settled and justice were done to Gibraltar's LGBT community, and we are determined this should be so through whatever means.’<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-44087728205348793522012-05-16T21:56:00.001+01:002012-05-16T21:56:38.096+01:00Governor of Gibraltar supports International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO)<div align="left" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUI8b_sJmXQwHfWE33h2kqQLhIhx3GZua0qEcyuZcLhk78NuDt0ITa7se9vFuV44pFaNrkvrIQsUV6WDdKCHjwZiC66yF0Jx02n4Mbc5p-qK3_hr-J4SYDkfE4Z_-_C5xVROBU/s1600/SIR+ADRIAN+JOHNS+GOVERNOR+-+PIC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUI8b_sJmXQwHfWE33h2kqQLhIhx3GZua0qEcyuZcLhk78NuDt0ITa7se9vFuV44pFaNrkvrIQsUV6WDdKCHjwZiC66yF0Jx02n4Mbc5p-qK3_hr-J4SYDkfE4Z_-_C5xVROBU/s1600/SIR+ADRIAN+JOHNS+GOVERNOR+-+PIC.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Press statement from the Office of HE The Governor of Gibraltar:</span></strong><br />
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Thursday 17 May is the International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia (IDAHO). IDAHO is celebrated around the world and is being celebrated this year in Gibraltar for the first time. It aims to bring awareness and calls for an end to discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens. <br />
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HE the Governor, Sir Adrian Johns, welcomed the marking of IDAHO in Gibraltar:<br />
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‘I wholeheartedly support IDAHO and the global work for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual (LGBT) equality and justice. It is sadly the case that in many places, including in the UK and Gibraltar, LGBT citizens can still be victims of discrimination. Respect for diversity is a universal human right that we should all be able to take for granted.’<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-84325824567526763002012-05-16T21:50:00.003+01:002012-05-31T21:49:41.137+01:00Equality Rights Group and UNITE the Union mark International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO)<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">‘The gay community, their straight friends, families and supporters will no longer allow homophobia’</span></em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr24mA5NlVfA-F0tKSXL618ZL46Qdnxhc80nl51fxhIoMAyim3pk8gBnfupAHHZFQjkUDb3X8Qs_EKuHl_TY6T6Q53VOvsk4VIDJF57kYAn2QW_MJa2zWcbeKmYrGuZX5y9nXw/s1600/WIDE+SHOT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 177px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 416px;"><img border="0" height="152" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr24mA5NlVfA-F0tKSXL618ZL46Qdnxhc80nl51fxhIoMAyim3pk8gBnfupAHHZFQjkUDb3X8Qs_EKuHl_TY6T6Q53VOvsk4VIDJF57kYAn2QW_MJa2zWcbeKmYrGuZX5y9nXw/s400/WIDE+SHOT.JPG" width="400" /></a>In a new development, Equality Rights Group GGR and Unite the Union have today formally announced a joint project of cooperation to promote equality and eradicate discrimination. In their first joint effort, GGR and Unite are today marking International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO), a worldwide event celebrated every 17th May, in a symbolic gesture outside Parliament.</div>
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GGR Chairman, Felix Alvarez, expressed satisfaction ‘both at the first-ever marking of IDAHO in Gibraltar – because homophobia is real enough, even though often subtle, in making many people’s lives unhappy, and this needs to continue changing – and also with the building of positive relations with the Union movement in Gibraltar.’<br />
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For his part, Michael Netto, Unite Chairman, also hailed ‘the establishment of constructive work alongside the Equality Rights Group, planning for which has now commenced’, adding that ‘it not only fulfils and complies with Unite’s firm commitment to equality and human rights, but it also complements the important work already carried out by the Union in this community.’ <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-51370718636201764372012-04-17T00:05:00.004+01:002012-04-17T00:05:00.859+01:00New Committee - New Phase<div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">‘To say that because we defend gay rights we are ineligible to raise our voices on broader issues is discriminatory and unacceptable’</span></strong></em></div><br />
Thanking the old Executive Committee for their work over the past 4 years, Equality Rights Group GGR has announced the formation of a new Executive following recent elections. GGR’s statement to the Press highlights ‘what is not only a new set of individuals, but also a new phase of openness, where people are beginning to lose their fear of being publicly known. This is only one sign of the many changes which are occurring for not only gay citizens in Gibraltar, but also their heterosexual friends, too, who themselves, are also overcoming their fears to openly support. As such, a good number of the 14 EC applicants were not gay. <br />
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‘We will not be stereotyped nor put into neat little boxes by any means – editorially, politically, socially or otherwise. We defend Gibraltar-wide human and civil rights across the board – and we do so precisely because we walk our talk on ‘inclusiveness'. To say that because we defend gay rights we are ineligible to raise our voices on broader issues is discriminatory and unacceptable.’<br />
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‘There is still a long way to go, though. People in all sectors should come together in realizing that we can only be dubbed ‘minorities’ when we allow ourselves to be partitioned off. Whether we like it or not, all ‘minority’ issues in a small community affect the majority, directly or indirectly, through our friends and families. <br />
<br />
‘GGR took the decision last year to hold back on re-grouping for a prudent period pre- and post- the National Elections in Gibraltar in order to ensure stability in a period of flux. GGR is now pleased to announce the selection of the following individuals to its Executive: Ivan Hernandez, Kevin Kelway, Maryanne Nacimiento, Gabrielle Phillips, Charles Trico, Paul Wells and Felix Alvarez.<br />
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‘A number of co-opted individuals also assist the group in its work on an ‘as required’ basis. Furthermore, Kevin Kelway, known locally for his pro-Gibraltar activism in Britain, has been named in an honorary capacity, and will provide a link for the Committee to the UK.<br />
<br />
The group has also revealed that the outgoing Executive Committee requested the Chairmanship of the group be re-taken by Felix Alvarez, who following consideration and endorsement accepted, insisting that the new Committee ‘represent a new phase and fresh approach to the group’s work.’ Charles Trico continues in the role of Secretary to the group.<br />
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‘GGR is in a growth phase, with the influx of new both gay and heterosexual participation. Indeed, heterosexual supporters and members comprise a significant new trend in the growth the organization is experiencing, with membership currently standing at around 500. We shall be holding more and more open meetings which we expect to start in a small way but which, with on-going hard work, are destined to grow in significance,’ the statement added.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-67976817594229843172012-04-09T21:08:00.002+01:002012-04-09T21:09:33.122+01:00GGR in EU complaintEquality Rights Group GGR has submitted a complaint to MEP Sir Graham Watson, the group has announced in a communiqué to the press.<br />
<br />
‘The matter relates to a Europe-wide survey on real life experiences of sexual minorities. As a group, we have received many reports from individuals on the Rock who have wanted to participate in providing feedback to the EU on a survey it is undertaking in order to have hard facts to inform its policy making. Nonetheless, when Gibraltarians have been in the process of completing the online survey, they have found that Gibraltar is excluded from the list of participating countries, the only option available being the UK as representative.<br />
<br />
‘We fully understand that, for EU purposes, Gibraltar is not a stand-alone Member State, and that its membership is by proxy via the United Kingdom. Whilst this is not a satisfactory situation it is, however, hard political fact. Nonetheless, in a situation where the EU is asking for real-life experience to be fed back for its policy information, it makes no sense at all that Gibraltarians should be grouped under the UK, as if the information reflected not Gibraltar experience but the UK's. <br />
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‘GGR has approached Sir Graham Watson, MEP, as a first point of contact to raise the complaint. However, whilst we await what if any amendment might be possible on this issue, we shall study the possibility of taking the matter up further within the European Union.<br />
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‘GGR has long complained of the lack of an explicit mechanism for Gibraltar social and human rights information to be regularly reported to the EU. Member States are required to present periodic reports to the Union, but we see no procedure in sight and in place which similarly takes care of putting Gibraltar issues to the European Union. It is little wonder, therefore, if Gibraltarians should feel distanced, uninvolved and uncared for by an EU which does not take effective measures to remedy this deficit,’ the statement ends.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-6688614381965590562012-03-27T21:05:00.000+01:002012-04-09T21:07:48.659+01:00Alvarez & GGR lawyer make Commonwealth submissionsIn a statement to the media, Equality Rights Group GGR has made known that founder member Felix Alvarez and Counsel for GGR, Hassan’s Barrister John Restano, acting for the Group, have made separate official submissions to the Royal Commonwealth Society regarding its draft Commonwealth Charter. <br />
‘The Charter, building on declarations of Commonwealth values and principles made by Commonwealth Heads of Government since 1970, aims to enshrine a democratic and human rights framework for adoption across all Commonwealth member states. This ‘Magna Carta’, therefore, represents an important point of reference for all Commonwealth nations, amongst which is our country, Gibraltar,’ Mr Alvarez explained. ‘Importantly for Gibraltar, the definition and special needs of ‘small states’ (in particular with regard to the issues related to small Civil Society) are unsatisfactorily reflected in the Draft Charter and my submission brought this to light and agrees with Government’s response to the UK’s recent Survey on relations with its Overseas Territories with regard to the unsatisfactory support received by Gibraltar from the Commonwealth,’ Alvarez added.<br />
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‘As a Gibraltar individual citizen with a particular interest in issues of democracy and people’s rights on the Rock, and valuing the role and importance of the Commonwealth for Gibraltar, I felt an obligation to participate in the consultation exercise which the Commonwealth extended to all member State individuals and organizations. Equality Rights Group GGR also independently made a submission through the offices of its Counsel.’<br />
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‘While the Charter pronounces itself in high, aspirational terms on some of the best democratic and human rights values, it nonetheless falls short of empowering the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group with explicit and sufficient mechanisms to make the Charter a reality. Furthermore, serious deficits arise through the document’s failure to include the categories of sexual orientation, disability and gender identity within its stated list of anti-discrimination protections,’ Mr Alvarez added.<br />
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‘Such serious omissions, at a time when, throughout the Commonwealth, substantial minorities are increasingly calling out to their governments to address their needs, are lamentable and inherently incoherent given the fact that the Charter itself determines, under Article 23, that ‘silence on the part of the Commonwealth is not an option’. Nonetheless, and despite the political realities of the Commonwealth group of nations, it is at least to be hoped the consultation exercise will result in positive amendments to rectify the draft document shortfalls.'Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-81860307650059186882012-03-20T21:04:00.000+00:002012-04-09T21:05:19.605+01:00Discrimination exists - but we're on track for EqualityIn the first of a series of planned public meetings for the gay community, their families and friends, Equality Rights Group GGR has once more openly supported Government in its commitment to legal measures in favour of the gay community.<br />
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Speaking at the meeting held last week, Organisation founder, Felix Alvarez, informed the well-attended meeting of consultations which have taken place in respect of the Government’s commitments to civil partnership and hate crime/speech legislation.<br />
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'Those measures, along with goods and services provisions, mean that although discrimination to date is still a reality for the gay community, we are, nonetheless on the right track towards Equality,' Mr Alvarez stated.<br />
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‘Gays and lesbians in this community alone represent anything between 1,500 to 3,000 citizens - and that's not counting their families and friends. Sufficient numbers for them to insist on their issues being attended to seriously not only as voters and tax payers but also as citizens who deserve respect. It is clear that all present at the recent Meeting held were in full agreement that these three areas of law are felt to represent the core of discrimination that has to be eliminated in order for first class citizenship to start becoming a reality for the gay community. Let there be no doubt from whatever quarter, Parliamentary or otherwise, that the LGBT community is more determined than ever to ensure equality becomes a reality for all – and that includes the disabled and other marginalized sectors. A fair and equal Gibraltar for all is what GGR stands for,’ Mr Alvarez added.<br />
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‘The gay community will continue to make its electoral voice known to Parliament, politicians, political parties and the community at large in order to pursue a more equitable, democratic, and human rights conscious community. Discrimination affects not only gay people themselves, but also their families and friends, and GGR is glad to see them all coming together to ensure the necessary changes come about. We have deposited our trust in Government’s commitments and look forward to continuing cooperation and support to this end,’ the statement ended.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-1227742598588120702011-12-14T21:12:00.000+00:002012-04-09T21:14:43.137+01:00Government has our full cooperationIn a statement to the press, Equality Rights Group GGR has welcomed the election of Fabian Picardo as Gibraltar’s new Chief Minister and ‘the atmosphere of dialogue, hope and sensitivity to equality and human rights which the new Administration’s Manifesto commitments has pledged. In this, the Deputy Chief Minister, Joseph Garcia, in his task of civic reform as well as the Minister for Equality and Social Services, Samantha Sacramento, are assured of our full cooperation. We give our thanks also for the warm and vociferous support given by so many people in social media sites, and of course to the people of Gibraltar who voted for parties pledging progress on same-sex and human rights issues. It is heartening to see change come to Gibraltar.’<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">CONCERN FOR YOUNG & MIDDLE-AGED</span></strong><br />
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Felix Alvarez, founder and ex-Chairman of the group stated that ‘Following a request for independent advice, I have urged the group to focus on cooperation and consultation with the new Administration since confrontation with the previous government was a circumstance made obligatory by Mr Caruana’s decade-long refusal to dialogue despite public and private approaches. And I am honoured to comply with the group’s request to publicly announce the change of emphasis in its moment of transition despite no longer being in the Executive. The initial job, which has taken 11 years of hard work, is largely done – though there is no doubt that there will be more for the group to do and build upon.’ <br />
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‘The group is keen, however, to see a new generation (irrespective of gender or sexual orientation) with fresh ideas and impetus take forward the equality campaign programme in whatever form,’ Alvarez continued, ‘and in this GGR is already actively engaged. Indeed, the very fact that this can now happen is in itself the realisation of everything GGR has worked for over the last decade. Eleven years ago it was not,’ Mr. Alvarez added.<br />
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‘Two areas, however, remain of concern: firstly, the increasing problem of bullying and homophobic violence towards gay people, especially the young. We look forward to the Administration’s pledge to introduce modern Hate Crime legislation in this respect. However, it is incumbent upon both the police and schools to have proper and sufficient awareness, training and procedures to begin to eradicate these problems, and in this GGR will be more than happy to extend whatever cooperation and skills it can provide. The group has previously provided training courses for the RGP and is more than willing to extend the same service once more wherever it is needed’ Mr Alvarez added.<br />
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‘Secondly, the provisions in the Equal Opportunities Act to do away with employment discrimination by companies or recruitment agencies need to be made real through effective supervision and enforcement. Whilst the provisions are broad in scope across most discrimination categories, GGR within its wider remit of discrimination across the whole community, is particularly concerned with respect to age discrimination. We have had sufficient representations made to us over the years to know that middle-aged job seekers have a particularly hard time because they are, perhaps, the least understood. Too often people in this age range find themselves left out of the employment market on age criteria alone, regardless of their years of experience and qualifications. They form an often-overlooked sector of this community and it is time their situation was attended to – if nothing else because age discrimination at work is actually already illegal!’Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-56588582869620860082011-04-08T21:15:00.001+01:002012-04-09T21:17:19.967+01:00Supreme Court ruling: another step towards EqualityAfter almost eleven years of their campaign to bring equality to Gibraltar's age of consent law, Equality Rights Group GGR is today celebrating what they consider to be 'a first but very hard won step forward towards equality for all sexual minorities in Gibraltar.'<br />
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'There is no doubt,' added Acting Spokesman for the group Charles Trico, 'that much still remains to be done and we will be keeping an eye out for political parties' promises in their coming Manifestoes. But this first major hurdle towards Gibraltar law recognising equality for this sector of our community is a litmus test not only for how the issues have moved on in modern societies generally, but especially in Gibraltar since GGR started to air the questions affecting LGBT people on the Rock in September 2000.'<br />
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'Despite many difficulties over the years, it is good to see the law finally agreeing with our arguments. We hold no bad feeling or rancour towards any side, and extend a hand of friendship towards anyone who may represent an opposing view. We are also always willing to dialogue with any government or Party whatever their colours. This is an opportunity for political attitudes to change to this question, and for people to wake up to the fact that Gibraltarians have 'moved on' from prejudice towards a more accepting attitude towards minorities.Let me take this opportunity to thank John Restano of Hassan's for his committed and sterling work, as well as the UK Government and Unite the Union for having supported the arguments for equality on sexual orientation in Court.'<br />
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'Meanwhile, Mr Trico ended, 'I have been asked to add that GGR expects to announce the results of elections of a new Chairperson for the group in the coming weeks.'Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-64838753916547321972011-04-08T17:10:00.000+01:002011-04-08T17:10:10.212+01:00'Another step towards Equality says GGR after Supreme Court rulingAfter almost eleven years of their campaign to bring equality to Gibraltar's age of consent law, Equality Rights Group GGR is today celebrating what they consider to be 'a first but very hard won step forward towards equality for all sexual minorities in Gibraltar.'<br />
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'There is no doubt,' added Acting Spokesman for the group Charles Trico, 'that much still remains to be done and we will be keeping an eye out for political parties' promises in their coming Manifestoes. But this first major hurdle towards Gibraltar law recognising equality for this sector of our community is a litmus test not only for how the issues have moved on in modern societies generally, but especially in Gibraltar since GGR started to air the questions affecting LGBT people on the Rock in September 2000.'<br />
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'Despite many difficulties over the years, it is good to see the law finally agreeing with our arguments. We hold no bad feeling or rancour towards any side, and extend a hand of friendship towards anyone who may represent an opposing view. We are also always willing to dialogue with any government or Party whatever their colours. This is an opportunity for political attitudes to change to this question, and for people to wake up to the fact that Gibraltarians have 'moved on' from prejudice towards a more accepting attitude towards minorities.Let me take this opportunity to thank John Restano of Hassan's for his committed and sterling work, as well as the UK Government and Unite the Union for having supported the arguments for equality on sexual orientation in Court.'<br />
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'Meanwhile, Mr Trico ended, 'I have been asked to add that GGR expects to announce the results of elections of a new Chairperson for the group in the coming weeks.'Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-57725368883452417732011-03-04T21:22:00.001+00:002011-03-04T21:23:47.696+00:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzf18ZC2iMB0ovzfPnccVbnssIsVWrsHVH3Yp3Zu8LolWPhGBzfBCCg4PDaXAjotIegwiEuP3wSXDk' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Felix Alvarez interviewed on Gibraltar Radio and TV about his 10 years as Chairman. Acknowledgments and thanks to Gibraltar Broadcasting Corporation (GBC)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-70710185669431741522011-03-02T22:17:00.000+00:002011-03-02T22:17:40.238+00:00<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdvHo-vSR7K_vw1EYqUNTOhciSzikd1eQ4Ix3pJdrJzouZ5Vj-nTjBiqsrmWMGhLEqLaRJ8g30FqbLA8KGJH-rFYwx-CK0Tv5WRJasMauUpfUVpb9JJAraGiLLikHC_ZFDbpl/s1600/pensive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdvHo-vSR7K_vw1EYqUNTOhciSzikd1eQ4Ix3pJdrJzouZ5Vj-nTjBiqsrmWMGhLEqLaRJ8g30FqbLA8KGJH-rFYwx-CK0Tv5WRJasMauUpfUVpb9JJAraGiLLikHC_ZFDbpl/s200/pensive.jpg" width="200" /></a>Equality Rights Group GGR has today announced that Felix Alvarez, founder and up to now Chairman of the group, gave notice some months back that he would not be standing for the post at upcoming periodic elections within the group, due to take place next month. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
‘After over a decade in post, and having taken the programme for equal rights forward to successful conclusion on various counts, it is now time for fresh leadership,’ Mr Alvarez stated. ‘I continue to be interested in the rights of all people and I do not intend to give up contributing to furthering citizens’ rights,’ he said. <br />
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‘The aims of generating social dialogue, debate, awareness, and establishing important legal and political precedents are all there now for sexual minorities in Gibraltar, though much still needs to be done. The judgment on the age of consent issue is still pending, but there is little doubt in my mind that equalisation will have to come. GGR in its election of a new Chairperson and Committee will, I am confident, be continuing the campaign work and the evolution of issues into the future.’ <br />
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The Group has said that it will make a statement regarding Mr Alvarez’s successor in due course, and has thanked him for the ‘very hard work, unceasing commitment, intelligence and prudence with which some extremely difficult goals have been successfully achieved over the past ten years.’Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-52563484560234876872010-06-24T14:07:00.001+01:002010-06-24T14:08:19.636+01:00GGR hosts visit of leading international lawyer to GibaltarIn a statement to the press, Equality Rights Group Chairman, Felix Alvarez, has announced that the group is hosting the visit to Gibraltar of Professor Robert Wintemute at the beginning of July. <br />
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"Professor Wintemute obtained his Doctorate in Comparative Constitutional Law from the University of Oxford, and currently leads King's College London's Human Rights degree programme. He is considered one of the leading international experts on sexual orientation law, in particular with regards to the European Convention on Human Rights. He has an impressive track record of representation at the European Court of Human Rights and elsewhere. <br />
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"Robert Wintemute will be holding a series of meetings during his stay, and we are honoured to host his visit and to welcome him to the Rock," the statement ended.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-52270581835744293382010-05-20T12:06:00.001+01:002010-05-20T12:07:03.914+01:00Age of Consent: We call for 'reconciliation of differences' between Justice Minister and Women's Association<div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">GGR suggests ‘near to age’ provisions in consent law to bring together the community</span></strong></em></div><br />
Equality Rights Group GGR Chairman Felix Alvarez has called for a ‘reconciliation of differences on the age of consent issue between the Minister for Justice and the Gibraltar Women’s Association. Both, after all,' says Mr Alvarez in a statement to the Press, 'are in favour of an equal age of consent. Let all parties therefore engage constructively on seeking the best way forward in the interests of Gibraltar as a whole.’<br />
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‘In this respect,’ stated Mr Alvarez, ‘I believe that it may be useful, as a suggestion, for ‘near-to-age’ provisions in age of consent law found in other jurisdictions to be taken into consideration as a means to reasonably addressing the feelings of community opinion. ‘Near-to-age’ in this context means that the law can be written so as to make sexual activity legal between persons close to each other in age, but still set margins beyond which an unacceptable difference in age between one partner and the other would be determined in law. This may reasonably address the issue of predators. For example, if the consent age were set at 16, there is nothing to stop the law from requiring that consenting sex be lawful between a 16 year old and a person up to no more than two years older. However, once 18, the person would be free to engage in any consenting relationship. It is important not to lose sight of the fact that this debate is, indeed, about consent, and that we already have laws to deal with sex where consent is absent. The two issues are often, but should not be, confused.<br />
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‘As Chairman of GGR, I am more than happy to engage in talks with the Minister for Justice on the matter," Mr Alvarez ended.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-63089683265025557542010-04-09T18:01:00.001+01:002010-04-09T18:01:53.941+01:00Spanish TV4 coverage of age of consent issue in Gibraltar 8th April 2010Click the link to watch this Spanish tv national news report. More to come. Watch this space!<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VKZ6uLKvEc">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VKZ6uLKvEc</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-7429867180237904332010-03-31T13:02:00.001+01:002010-03-31T13:03:12.830+01:00Age of Consent court case: Caruana would do the same as the UK in their shoes<ul><li><strong><em>Alvarez accuses Caruana of a homophobic crusade ‘at tax payers’ expense’</em></strong></li>
</ul>Responding to news that the British government has filed to intervene in the upcoming Supreme Court hearing on the age of consent issue, Felix Alvarez, Equality Rights Group Chairman, has welcomed the fact that “the UK, the party responsible for this matter under international law, has once more made its position clear regarding the legal obligation for the age of consent to be equalised.<br />
Mr Alvarez further stated that “Mr Caruana would do exactly the same as the UK is doing were he in their shoes. Perhaps he hasn’t yet understood that the British government is under an inescapable legal obligation under the European Convention of Human Rights to ensure there is no inequality in this law in Gibraltar. Indeed, two years ago, HMG was given notice by the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers (the highest sanctioning body in that organisation) to ensure this came about.<br />
“Almost a year ago I publicly warned that the path the Chief Minister was treading could provoke a confrontation between Gibraltar and Britain on this matter, a situation which would be of great disservice to Gibraltarians.<br />
“Nonetheless”, Mr Alvarez continued, “Mr Caruana did not present a Bill guaranteeing equalisation would take place. Instead, he used the delaying tactic of a free vote, risking an uncertain outcome, thus ignoring the legally binding nature of the requirement.<br />
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“For a Chief Minister of Gibraltar to place the whole community so close to direct intervention by the UK, and despite his much-touted new Constitution, is irresponsible to say the least. One can only conclude that Mr Caruana cares very little for the wider interests of Gibraltar in its UK relationship when it comes to promoting his on-going crusade at tax payers’ expense against the Gibraltar gay community in pursuing what is a sectarian homophobic agenda. Gibraltar is for all – and the Chief Minister must look after the interests of all its citizens, without exclusion,” Mr Alvarez ended.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-29718820486327017252010-03-26T17:08:00.000+00:002010-03-26T17:08:10.108+00:00We welcome age of consent change in GuernseyFollowing the recent passing of a law equalising the age of consent in Guernsey – a UK dependent territory – Equality Rights Group GGR has welcomed the news.<br />
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“This is one further example – closer to home – of the increasingly unacceptable injustice which is enshrined in any unequal age of consent law. Guernsey, like the UK, has opted for a consent age of 16. The arguments whether medical, psychological, social or justice-wise seem to hold water not only at UK level, but indeed across the majority of European states.<br />
“GGR itself has never advocated any particular age level for consent, but instead has insisted over the past 9 years since it started to campaign on the issue, that equality is the fundamental point at heart. We continue highlighting that inequalities between citizens breach not only common-sense and fundamental democratic norms, but indeed only serve to create an atmosphere of social division, not cohesion.<br />
“GGR looks forward to the rectification of Gibraltar law through the democratic mechanism of parliamentary change.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16422023.post-51047013750785280692010-03-23T16:58:00.002+00:002010-03-23T21:04:46.971+00:00Government finally equalises housing policy<div><em>We will continue working for Equality - whether Gibraltar's Chief Minister likes it or not!</em></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgehYFh0rtSn8SsiKIU5m4WQ_PjfGIu1jsEoA-wQ4vVH2GoEg1XkNtiFVBif1Buaa97bGvL4EiwonA5KA1f0185vBE5mSnzQf2tiHoqVwR6gQpgFRCAQkxgNv2D4qOdcIftnjuZ/s1600-h/FELIX+WHITE+SHIRT+SHORT+HAIR+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 151px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 231px;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgehYFh0rtSn8SsiKIU5m4WQ_PjfGIu1jsEoA-wQ4vVH2GoEg1XkNtiFVBif1Buaa97bGvL4EiwonA5KA1f0185vBE5mSnzQf2tiHoqVwR6gQpgFRCAQkxgNv2D4qOdcIftnjuZ/s200/FELIX+WHITE+SHIRT+SHORT+HAIR+01.jpg" vt="true" width="200" /></a></div>Equality Rights Group GGR Chairman, Felix Alvarez (pictured left) has acknowledged Government’s announcement that it has changed its policy in housing allocation to recognise the right of a lesbian couple to joint tenancy of a government flat. This follows the decision of the Privy Council, the UK’s highest court, that discrimination against same-sex couples in housing issues by the Government of Gibraltar was illegal. <br />
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“There was never any sense or benefit,” said Mr Alvarez, “to anyone in insisting that a same-sex couple should not be able to live together, and that, instead, they would be granted two separate housing units instead of one!” Mr Alvarez stated. “This change benefits everyone who is looking for government housing in Gibraltar in a situation of housing stock shortage.”<br />
“Furthermore, what a dreadful waste of tax payers’ money this stubborn and behind-the-times attitude of Mr Caruana’s has turned out to be!” indicated Mr Alvarez. “Let us hope the Chief Minister has learnt his lesson in modern equality law on this occasion and does not subject the public to a similar waste of money on the pending claim regarding equalisation of the age of consent in Gibraltar. Certainly, GGR will continue to press for equality in this area of law, as well.”<br />
“On the housing issue, whilst it has taken several months since the Court decision for Mr Caruana to finally make public this change in policy in compliance with a legal requirement, there was never any doubt whatsoever that it would have to come about. Same-sex couples today needing government housing now clearly know they will need to be treated on equal terms with other citizens.<br />
“It is a matter of regret, however, that so much public money had to be wasted in pursuing a claim that was evidently going to fail – not only because of legalities, but also because public opinion has shifted not only Europe-wide on many of these issues, but in Gibraltar itself. People today just do not see discrimination in this field as fair or correct any more. We are confident that full equality for gay people is just round the corner, and GGR will continue working for it, whether Mr Caruana likes it or not.”</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com