The Isle of Man's pending Civil Partnership Bill will help shake off some of the prejudices which still exist about the Island in some quarters.
That's the hope of Economic Development Minister Allan Bell, who says the bigoted Tynwald debates on decriminalising homosexuality two decades ago made the Island a pariah to some at the time, particularly Labour politicians and trade unionists.
The bill, which will allow same-sex couples to enter into recognised partnerships, although not marriage, will become an act in the spring.
Mr Bell says rebuilding the Island's reputation as a caring, tolerant society on the issue starts then:
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