Tuesday August 5th, 2008
GROUNDBREAKING GAY BLOOD BAN CASE STARTS THURSDAY
The first full hearing in a groundbreaking gay blood ban case begins in Hobart this Thursday before the Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Tribunal.
The case was lodged in 2005 by Launceston gay man, Michael Cain, after he was refused the opportunity to give blood at the Launceston blood collection centre because he indicated he was in a sexual relationship with another man.
Mr Cain said "my case is simply that potential donors should be screened for the safety of their sexual activity rather than the gender of their sexual partner."
"I am looking forward to this important issue finally having its day in court"
Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, also welcomed the Tribunal hearing.
"In most western countries improvements to blood testing has sparked reviews of outdated policies banning gay blood donation.
"My hope is that this case will open the eyes of the Australian Red Cross to an important global reform movement."
On Thursday, counsel for Mr Cain and the Red Cross Society will give their opening addresses.
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