Jersey set to legalise same-sex marriage within three years

Jersey's Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst says the States will support families by releasing a new policy by the end of next year.

He says it needs to develop a family policy statement to "support families and marriage in all their forms".

He also wants the government to look at the legal rights for couples living together and review reasons for divorce and breaking up a civil partnership.

Channel Islands charity Liberate has welcomed an "historic milestone in our quest for true equality" after Jersey's Chief Minister published proposals to legalise same-sex marriage.

Liberate CI Chair, Martin Gavet, who met with Senator Ian Gorst earlier this month said: "The Chief Minister and his office have worked tirelessly since the States decision and the public rally in the summer of 2014 to consult widely on the introduction of equal marriage legislation.

He said that while "some my be disappointed" by the current timetable - which could see equal marriage introduced in Jersey 2017 - the charity was keen to ensure that authorities "get this right".

Jersey's Chief Minister has published plans to make same-sex marriage legal by 2017 at the latest.

The report, which was presented to the States today, will preserve the rights of religious organisations and officials who do not wish to conduct the ceremonies, Senator Ian Gorst said.

It follows a consultation period, during which the public gave views on the proposals.

Equality charity Liberate say Jersey's Chief Minister is to publish proposals to introduce equal marriage today.

The legislation will then be debated in the States Chamber.

If it is accepted by government, equal marriage in Jersey could be a reality by the end of 2017.