Today, the 26th of April is the third anniversary of the Civil Union Act coming into force. I am not sure of the latest statistics, but as at the end of 2007 over 1,000 couples had taken up the option of formalising their relationship through a civil union.  I am really proud to have played my part in passing that legislation.  Contrary to the views of some the sky has not fallen in, nor was the Act a waste of time.  I think the Act has been a huge success.  

One of the things that opponents of the Act might find difficult to understand is that it is playing an important role in strengthening families.  We  recently attended the celebration of a civil union of some friends.  This couple held events in different parts of the country so everyone could be a part of their celebration.  One set of parents had never really acknowledged their relationship of ten years, until the civil union.  The civil union gave the parents the opportunity to see the relationship for what it is- a loving, enduring commitment.  In a sense the civil union gave the relationship a sense of legitimacy, and has built bonds across and within two families.

The passing of the Act might not rate as being as significant to the future of New Zealand as  other Labour achievements such as Kiwisaver, the Super Fund, Working For Families, or income related rents, but it has made a real positive difference to many thousands of Kiwis lives and stands as a marker of a tolerant, inclusive society.