Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Social Programs reviewed Bill 5, An Act to Amend the Adoption Act and the Family Law Act on June 13th, 2002. The bill amends two acts to extend the definition of spouse to include individuals in same-sex relationships. The new definition in the Adoption Act will allow a same-sex spouse to adopt his or her spouse's child. The new definition in the Family Law Act will entitle a same-sex spouse to support, division of property and orders respecting the family home under that act. Finally, a number of provisions are included in the bill to deal with transitional issues.

The committee would like to thank the Honourable Michael Miltenberger, Minister responsible for the Department of Health and Social Services, his officials and those of the Department of Justice who appeared before the committee to present the bill and respond to questions raised by the committee.

During discussions on Bill 5, committee members expressed their appreciation to the concerned citizens who took the time to provide the committee with over 100 written submissions. These submissions provided great assistance during discussion of the bill. Members may have further comments on these submissions and the issues in committee of the whole here today. Mr. Chairman, this concludes the committee's comments on Bill 5, An Act to Amend the Adoption Act and the Family Law Act.