Malta votes 'Yes' in divorce referendum

Gerald · 05-29-11, 07:04 AM

Malta has voted "Yes" in a non-binding referendum on legalising divorce, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi has conceded, local media report.

Almost three-quarters of the electorate voted on Saturday on whether divorce should be introduced in Malta.

A majority Catholic country, Malta is the only EU country not to allow divorce.

Figures from the electoral commission late on Saturday showed turnout was 72%, the Times of Malta reports.

"Even though the result is not what I wished for, now it is our duty to see that the will of the majority is respected," Dr Gonzi said in a televised speech.

Dr Gonzi, who campaigned against the introduction of divorce, has said it is now up the parliament to enact a law legalising the dissolution of marriage on the island.

The Catholic Church, which is very influential in the archipelago, had also supported a "No" vote during the campaign.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13588834

Note: 29 May 2011 Last updated at 11:02 GMT

05-29-11, 07:04 AM	#1
Gerald SUBSIM Newsman Join Date: May 2008 Location: Close to sea Posts: 24,254 Downloads: 553 Uploads: 0	Malta votes 'Yes' in divorce referendum Malta has voted "Yes" in a non-binding referendum on legalising divorce, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi has conceded, local media report. Almost three-quarters of the electorate voted on Saturday on whether divorce should be introduced in Malta. A majority Catholic country, Malta is the only EU country not to allow divorce. Figures from the electoral commission late on Saturday showed turnout was 72%, the Times of Malta reports. "Even though the result is not what I wished for, now it is our duty to see that the will of the majority is respected," Dr Gonzi said in a televised speech. Dr Gonzi, who campaigned against the introduction of divorce, has said it is now up the parliament to enact a law legalising the dissolution of marriage on the island. The Catholic Church, which is very influential in the archipelago, had also supported a "No" vote during the campaign. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13588834 Note: 29 May 2011 Last updated at 11:02 GMT __________________ Nothing in life is to be feard,it is only to be understood. Marie Curie