Monday, June 2, 2008

Canada: Marriage official fined for gay discrimination

by Barb Pacholik
Canwest News Service

Saskatchewan's civil marriage commissioners will be directed to abide by the law and perform same-sex marriage ceremonies after a human rights tribunal fined a Regina commissioner $2,500 for discriminating against a gay couple.

Regina marriage commissioner for 25 years, Orville Nichols was found guilty under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code for refusing to perform a same-sex marriage three years ago.

If he doesn't uphold the law, he'll likely be allowed to complete any outstanding bookings for weddings before he loses his appointment as a commissioner, Morgan said.

"I broke the law because of my religious beliefs," said Nichols, who added he is disappointed in the decision and is considering an appeal.

Chief commissioner for the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission, Marilou McPhedran, said Nichols' refusal based on religious belief conflicted with his duties as a public officer.

full article

Posted by Tom at 8:12 AM

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