"Scotland becomes seventeenth country to approve same-sex marriages"

Is the announcement from Reuters making rounds over here.

Quote:

The move was opposed by the Scottish Catholic Church and the Presbyterian Church of Scotland but the law will not compel religious institutions to hold ceremonies on their premises. The approval, in a vote of 105 to 18 in Scotland's devolved parliament, follows similar legislation passed by the British parliament last year that allows same-sex marriage in England and Wales, with the first weddings to take place from March 29.

Linky.



Naturally, the BBC has some more details. Like always, it looks like there were pushes for ever more "protections" for people opposed.

Quote:

The SNP's John Mason tabled an amendment stating that no-one could be "compelled by any means" to solemnise gay marriage, including by a contract or a legal requirement. Mr Mason said that this was similar to a measure included in the bill passed by the UK Parliament allowing same-sex marriage in England and Wales. Health Secretary Alex Neil insisted there were "robust protections for religious bodies and celebrants" in the bill and the amendment was unnecessary. Mr Mason tabled further amendments, including one calling for recognition that "a belief in marriage as a voluntary union between one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others for life is a belief worthy of respect in a democratic society". He said: "This has been the prevailing view in Scotland for centuries, and may now be considered a minority view or even old fashioned, but it is an integral tenet of faith for many Christians, Muslims and others as well as the belief of many of no faith position at all."

A few interesting notes :

Quote:

Celebrants who are part of an organisation which has not opted in would not be allowed to conduct same-sex marriages. Individual celebrants who felt it would go against their faith to carry out same-sex weddings would be protected. Establishing belief ceremonies, such as humanist ceremonies as a "third form of marriage", alongside religious and civil events. Authorising Church of Scotland deacons to solemnise opposite sex marriage. Possible tests for religious and belief bodies to meet when solemnising marriages or registering civil partnerships, in light of increasing concerns over sham and forced marriages. Introducing religious and belief ceremonies to register civil partnerships. Allowing transgender people to stay married, rather than having to get divorced, when obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate. Provision making it clear that the introduction of same-sex marriage has no impact on existing rights to freedom of speech and that it is possible to oppose same-sex marriage "without being homophobic". Amended guidance on the teaching of the issue in schools .

Linky.

via JREF Forum http://ift.tt/1irkD07