Iqaluit (May 05/03) - A federal committee last week heard that same-sex marriage goes traditional Inuit culture because it would hamper chances of survival.

The committee was in Iqaluit on April 30, part of a month-long national tour.

James Arreak, a local pastor and a member of the Inuit community, had a very different view.

The same-sex marriage issue in his mind was contrary not only to the word of God, but also to Inuit traditional values.

He said that some would believe Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) would accept same-sex marriages but that is a misconception.

"IQ is about survival," said Arreak. "In Inuit culture, the homosexual lifestyle would not have happened because of survival."

However, according to Amanda Ford, a representative of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, there are a number of gay and lesbian Inuit who did not participate in panel discussions out of fear of reprisal.

Anna Brewer, who is a daughter of a same-sex couple, also participated in panel discussions.

She sat along side her mother, Allison Brewer.

Anna was asked by the committee if growing up in with same-sex parents made her life more difficult than if she would have had traditional parenting.

"I do feel I had problems, but I would have had problems if I didn't have the coolest shoes," said Anna. "I don't feel it made huge problems for me at all."

There had been fear the Iqaluit forum would have to be cancelled due to lack of interest. It turned out to be unfounded, though, when nearly 30 individuals appeared to make a statement.

The committee heard from those representing local religious groups, the local gay and lesbian community and Inuit organizations.

Andy Scott, the chair of the justice committee, said the messages were very similar to other hearings held previously.

There were a few notable differences. This was the first hearing that required three separate translations: English, French and Inuktitut.

It was also the first hearing where a class attended from the local high school. Bryon Doherty, a teacher at Inuksuk high school, was a member of the third and final panel of the hearing and his Grade 10 social studies class sat in the audience.

Doherty was one person lending his support to changing federal legislation to allow same-sex marriage.

"Marriage should not be exclusive, it should be inclusive. I want my students and other young people ensure that all Canadians get the equal rights the deserve," said Doherty.

The clearest message the committee heard nationwide is the fear that allowing same-sex marriages would force religions to marry same-sex couples.

Scott said the right to religious freedom under the Charter of Rights and Freedom would clearly protect religious denominations from being forced to practise what would be compromising to their beliefs.

John Fischer, director of advocacy with Egale, a national gay and lesbian rights group, said the gay and lesbian community is not looking for religious marriage rights, but civil marriage rights.

Following review of all witness statements the committee will report back to the federal government, which will have 150 days to decide on a course of action.

If new legislation is decided on, more public consultations will follow. Scott would not comment on whether the federal government will be able to uphold the status quo or not.

"I don't want to poison the proceedings," he said.