Gay Marriage Fires Up Canadian Election
by Ben Thompson
365Gay.com Newscenter


(Ottawa) Canada's opposition Conservatives are fueling divisions in the country over same-sex marriage by telling voters that if his party is elected it will consider using a constitutional override to prevent same-sex marriage.

The Constitution's notwithstanding clause allows provinces or the federal government to opt out of constitutional rulings with which they do not agree. It has been rarely used by the provinces and never by the federal government.

But, Stephen Harper said Wednesday that he is prepared to consider the option if courts continue to rule for gay and lesbian couples.

Gay rights advocates immediately attacked the Conservative leader, accusing him of having a hidden agenda.