THREE-times no would be my answer to the three referendum questions if I decided to participate, said Ombudswoman Jana Dubovcová, the TASR reported on January 22.
Three referendum questions are: Do you agree that no other cohabitation of persons other than a bond between one man and one woman can be called marriage? Do you agree that same-sex couples or groups shouldn’t be allowed to adopt and raise children? Do you agree that schools cannot require children to participate in education pertaining to sexual behaviour or euthanasia if their parents or the children themselves do not agree with the content of the education?
Speaking at a press conference, Dubovcová revealed that she is actually not going to vote in the referendum scheduled for February 7 as she doesn't view the questions as important.
“To protect the institution of marriage by improving its legal definition, even at the constitutional level, arguing that this is how we're protecting the traditional family, isn’t vital, as marriage as a union of a man and a woman hasn't been challenged by anyone,” she said.
The ombudswoman went on to say that she does not share the concerns of the initiators of the referendum that the traditional family could be in danger if same-sex couples were allowed to marry.
As for the second question, which seeks people’s opinion on whether or not same-sex couples or groups should be allowed to adopt and raise children, Dubovcová said that rather than placing children whose family cannot or does not want to care for them – or who do not have any family, in children’s homes – the state attempts to find domestic adoption and/or foster care.
“What would be ideal for all these children is their adoption,” Dubovcová said, as quoted by TASR. “The sexual orientation of the adoption applicant doesn’t play any role here.”
Dubovcová would also say no to the third question about sex education and euthanasia because the state is already obliged to guarantee this option.
“Social relationships are evolving, and this process can’t even be halted by the referendum,” said, as quoted by TASR. “I don’t think its right to reject the option of future changes.”
Source: TASR
Compiled by Roman Cuprik from press reports
The Slovak Spectator cannot vouch for the accuracy of the information presented in its Flash News postings.
