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November 22, 2005
Grandparents' Rights |
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Mrs. Leanne Rowat (Minnedosa): Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to an issue that was presented earlier today. Today, I was pleased to see grandparents from throughout Manitoba come to listen to the debate on Bill 201, The Child and Family Services Amendment Act (Grandparent Access).
I would like to thank the members and friends of the Grand Society and the Brandon grandparents support group. They took the time to come today anticipating a meaningful debate on this bill, but, Mr. Speaker, there was no real debate on this legislation. In order for this to be a real debate there needs to be mutual co-operation and openness from both sides of the House.
I was disappointed members opposite adjourned debate without having the courtesy to voice any opinion on this legislation. I would like to challenge members opposite to engage in an active and open debate concerning Bill 201, The Child and Family Services Amendment Act. We have not heard an alternative from this government, no amendments, nothing, Mr. Speaker.
The grandparents that were here today and all grandparents across Manitoba have the right to learn why the government is not addressing their concerns. Mr. Speaker, I ask the members opposite what harm is there in asking that the court must consider the love, affection and similar ties that exist between the child and the grandparent.
We have to trust in the discretion of the courts to judge what is in the best interest of the child. We are only asking that the significant relationship between grandparents and grandchildren are given fair consideration. Grandparents seeking access to their grandchildren deserve that right.
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