In view of the debate taking place regarding the right of gay couples to adopt children, Alternattiva Demokratika said that it reiterates its position of equality and non-discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

Angele Deguara, AD representative on the LGBT Consultative Council, said, “while it is healthy for a constructive debate about the rights of minorities to take place and for different stakeholders to participate, AD urges our representatives in parliament not to let stereotypes and prejudice reign over social justice.

“AD’s position has always been clear. We believe that gay couples should be able to apply for adoption and that their case should be considered by the Adoptions Board in the same way as other cases are considered. This does not mean that adoption is an automatic right. It simply means that gay couples will not be discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation, regardless of whether they are potentially good parents or not.”

AD Chairperson, Professor Arnold Cassola, said, “AD does not agree with the proposal made by the leader of the Opposition Dr Simon Busuttil for an impact assessment to be carried out in relation to gay adoptions. Ironically, parliament has just voted a PN Private Member’s Bill to enshrine in the constitution a prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation.”

“The request for this specific social impact assessment would be reaffirming this discrimination. Assessments on the suitability of parents to adopt should continue to be carried out on a case by case basis on any couple or individual asking to adopt,” Prof. Cassola concluded.

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