The divorce referendum outcome “marks a watershed in the evolution of Maltese society” and it is now time for “meaningful and substantial” gay rights to be introduced on the island, according to the Malta Gay Rights Movement.

In a statement yesterday, the MGRM “warmly” welcomed the result, saying it showed that “Maltese society is altruistic and cognisant of the realities and needs of minority groups within their midst, and exhibits the qualities of compassion, tolerance and acceptance.

“This marks a watershed in the evolution of society, one in which civil liberties can start to flourish, and individual rights and responsibilities are afforded to other minority groups.”

In particular, the movement said, it was time for meaningful and substantial rights to be enacted in favour of the local LGBT community, which would reflect the needs and aspirations of LGBT couples and families, that were inclusive and truly brought the LGBT community within the embrace of society.

Cyrus Engerer, one of the movement’s members, was actively supporting the pro-divorce campaign.