Today's vote in the electrically charged House of Commons guaranteed that the redefinition of marriage will to be a major election issue in the months to come. The closeness of the vote on an opposition Motion demonstrates the seriousness of the issue of marriage and the fact that every vote is critically important.

We applaud the courage of Members of Parliament who defended democracy and voted according to the will of their people. We also especially acknowledge those Liberal Members who broke ranks with the Prime Minister and stood for the protection of marriage.

We note with regret the unfortunate decision of those who failed to vote on such an important issue, thereby betraying the trust of those who elected them as their representatives. These individual MPs are well paid by working Canadians and are charged with the responsibility to vote. Those who chose to abstain from such a fundamentally important issue, or who placed their own immediate and narrow interests ahead of the interests of future generations of Canadians by marching to the tune of an extremist Liberal such as Jean Chretien, will soon have to answer to their constituents.

Although we are, of course, disappointed with the results of this vote, we are encouraged by the progress made thus far. Just three short months ago the redefinition of marriage was being reported as a done deal. Today's vote proves that marriage can be successfully defended if Canadians of faith and goodwill continue to express their will. This giant has been awakened and will not be lulled back to sleep.

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Dr. Charles McVety
Organizer, Millions for Marriage
President, Canada Christian College
416.391.5000
Cell 416.434.8261