14 May 2004

Marriage stats show the way for Govt policy

Statistics NZ data released today showing the highest number of marriages since 1991, show that Government policy should be affirming marriage – not attempting to sideline it with legislation like the Civil Unions & Omnibus Bills.

Christian Heritage NZ leader Ewen McQueen said today that the data gave a clear indication that increasing numbers of New Zealanders still viewed marriage as important and were willing to make the formal public commitment that it defined. Public policy should reflect this, not the ideological agendas of policymakers. Mr McQueen stated,

“ This data confirms a trend that developed in the mid nineties showing marriage is once again on the rise in our nation. It clearly shows there is no demonstrated need for alternative forms of relationship to be established by the Government. New Zealanders are buying into marriage along with all the cultural connotations that it carries of lifelong commitment. Public policy should recognise and encourage this.”

The CHNZ leader said that instead of continuing to implement policy that sidelined marriage, the Government should be taking initiatives that rewarded couples willing to take on the commitment that it represented. The upcoming budget was an opportunity to do this and could include items such as income splitting for married couples and a reduction in the marriage licence fee.

ENDS

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