Letters to the Editor

He forgets that the 1961 Marriage Act has been subject to changes and amendments with the 2004 Amendment carried out by the Howard Government without a plebiscite.

So changes can be made and should be made according to the people's (voters) wishes. But isn't it about time in this the 21st century that religion and the state were separated so that people were allowed the freedom of choice whether to have a civil marriage or marry in a church.

Marriage should be a matter of Love, commitment and choice by the couple not something to be dictated by controlling groups of self interested politicians or religious zealots.

On the question of protecting women and children through the Marriage Act, any reader of the national daily papers or watcher of the television news can testify that this hugely important issue deserves every protection possible but is hardly an issue concerning any change to the Marriage Act.

Australia recognises overseas marriages from countries where due to certain religious beliefs the husband may 'lightly' beat his wife if she refuses him. In other countries wives suffer even worse abuse.

Marriage should be a question of commitment to love between two people and of protecting and nurturing the family unit however it might be comprised, and there should be no place for physical harm or abuse of any kind.

All too many marriages end in divorce and all members of the family suffer as a result. As a widower and proud father of three and grandfather, I want nothing more than the recognition of my overseas Marriage Certificate, which is being denied me and my partner. 

So please stop this tired old smoke screen rhetoric David Gillespie, I shall be voting for someone who believes in a much more fairer and more equal society than you obviously do.

Name and address supplied to the Editor

I have written to the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council due to ongoing concerns regarding the lack of signage for the pedestrian crossing at Ocean Drive North Haven. This crossing is used frequently by people going to the doctor, chemist, various shops and eateries at North Haven. Motorists are too often unaware of the crossing and speed through as though it wasn’t there.

I was forced to step back on two occasions on Friday June 24 to avoid being struck by vehicles which were obviously unaware of the crossing.

It is obvious the signage is not adequate and steps should be taken before someone is badly injured or killed. If any locals have similar concerns, please contact the Council so something can be done.

Bob Thompson, North Haven

Could Ian Read please explain how he knows there is a split of the local community in the flashing neon sign area, when he does not live over this side, and by his letter has not been in the place for what he believes are delicious meals, but has given the place more publicity than if they had put a ad in the paper. There is the worst foot crossing in the Camden Haven area at that point, in my opinion, badly posted, very hard to see foot walkers at the best of times, especially at night, and if the neon lights are going to slow traffic at that point, great! I’m sorry you are having restless nights over this. I pass through here 3/4 times a day, yes it does slow me down and maybe save a life or two.  

Ron Naylor

North Haven