The Liberal caucus discussed accelerating a parliamentary vote on same-sex marriage so it could be held before Prime Minister Jean Chretien steps down next February. But the proposal was dismissed.

The contentious topic dominated the caucus meeting ahead of the resumption of Parliament. Government House Leader Don Boudria said the proposal was dismissed, and that any substantive discussion of the bill was a long way off.

Many MPs would like the same-sex marriage issue put to rest quickly, with some worried the topic will cost them their seats in the next federal election. But the prime minister has insisted there be no early vote on the matter this fall.

Chretien wants the government to wait until the Supreme Court of Canada has reviewed the bill before bringing it to a free vote among members of Parliament. But the Supreme Court will not hear the matter before April -- right around the time when the Liberals are likely to call an election.

"That is not good news for the Paul Martin people who would like to see this dealt with and of the way well before the next election," says CTV's Mike Duffy.

With the issue dividing the country, the Canadian Alliance has proposed a motion opposing the redefinition of marriage.

The motion is based on a 1999 motion that passed with broad Liberal support, which stated that "marriage is and should remain the union of one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others, and that Parliament will take all necessary steps within the jurisdiction of the Parliament of Canada to preserve this definition of marriage in Canada."

Chretien is making no predictions on the outcome of the vote on the Alliance motion, which is expected Tuesday. Many Liberal backbenchers have said they would support the motion. But Chretien says he knows his cabinet will stand behind him.

"The cabinet ministers are taking a collective position," the PM told reporters. "We will have the vote tomorrow and we'll see. It's a free vote."

Justice Minister Martin Cauchon says the Alliance is trying to confuse the issue.

"That motion goes against the draft bill that we have tabled as a government. As well, it's a ticket to use the notwithstanding clause. And members will have to look at the motion to not fall into the trap of the Alliance."