Helena Dalli, Public Dialogue and Civil Rights Minister, said at a press conference this morning that the Government is today publishing the draft Civil Unions Bill. Saying that civil unions will be equal to marriage in all but name.

The Civil Unions Bill will recognise same-sex partnerships and give them the same rights and duties as married couple, the Minister said.

She said that the Government is putting the bill forward early to highlight its commitment in respecting diversity and to guarantee equality. The Minister said that all NGOs have endorsed the content of the bill.

Minister Helena Dalli added that the bill regulating unions for gay couples will enter its second reading in Parliament this evening. She said this law would mean a culture change both in Government and society as a whole.

Huma rights lawyer Neil Falzon was all present at the press conference and said it was a first step towards total equality in marriage.

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