The head of the Elgin Labor Council says phone calls received by MPP Peter North over the gay rights bill may not represent the true feelings of the riding.
Verne Warren said the fact that Mr. North recieved only four calls favoring the extension of equal rights to gay and lesbien couples reflects the "laid back" nature of the community.
Mr. North has received about 800 calls opposing the bill now before the legislature. He plans to reflect the mood of his riding by voting no.
The Ontario Federation of Labor supports the same-sex benefits legislation.
The Elgin Labor Council also supports it, based on equal rights for all.
While labor organizations support the principle, Mr. Warren is certain there is division on the shop floor.
"I'm sure there's a split among average workers," he said.
Mr. North, a former NDP cabinet minister who now sits as in independent, did not seek the opinion of the local labor council.
Mr. North said phone calls to his office have run 700 to four against the legislation.
It was introduced for first reading a week ago, but Mr. North missed the vote. Bills take three readings before becoming law.
If passed, the controversial legislation would extend employee benefits to homosexual partners and allow homosexual couples to adopt children.
Denmark, Sweden, and some U.S. cities recognize gay and lesbian couples as legal partners.
