If I understand right, Mr. Chairman, there would probably be some ambiguity there because it would be argued before a court of law and the judge would be the one who would decide. If one party said the relationship broke up on one day and the other party argued otherwise, there would have to be arguments made on both sides to convince the presiding judge that their case is the more valid one. In a marriage, there is more protection and more certainty. In common-law arrangements, there isn't. Thank you.
Stephen Kakfwi on Bill 5: An Act To Amend The Maintenance Act
In the Legislative Assembly on February 16th, 1995. See this statement in context.
Bill 5: An Act To Amend The Maintenance Act
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 15th, 1995
Page 138
See context to find out what was said next.