Ms June Tinsley:

We consider the legislation to be desperately needed because the legal framework does not at present recognise the existence of different family forms. There is an obligation on the part of the State to recognise these families. Children need love, support and encouragement from their parents, regardless of the sexual orientation of the parents or the form their family takes. Research has proven that is what helps a child to develop and the legislation must ensure children raised in different types of families are adequately supported and receive the legal recognition they deserve.