Madam Chair, when I campaigned for office, I indicated that I was not making any promises, but when I looked at an issue, I would look at both sides of the equation and that I would use fairness, equity and compassion in my decisions. That is what I am trying to do today, trying to treat people fairly, compassionately, and equitably.
Having studied the law, I know if we passed this law without the amendment, we will find ourselves in court and it will be expensive. I think it would be best not to put ourselves in that type of a situation. I have been told that by putting forward this amendment, it would likely mean that I would not be re-elected. I have heard Members being told that if we pass this, we would not be re-elected.
I am not here to worry about everything I do and whether I am going to be re-elected or not. I think we are here to try to be fair and equitable in our decisions and in the laws that we pass. It is simply not fair to not extend this right to everybody. The rights of division of property and spousal support are only extended to part of the population. As I said, I believe that it is against the constitution. We will be challenged and it will be expensive. On a final note, Madam Chair, I would like to express my disappointment with the Members who suddenly found pressing business outside this House today, but who were here all week. I would also like to ask for a recorded vote. Thank you.