Seanad to discuss legality of pre-nuptials

Justice Minister Michael McDowell is due to outline his plans to clarify the status of pre-nuptial agreements when he addresses a Seanad debate on the matter this evening.

Yesterday, Mr McDowell announced the establishment of an expert group to advise the Government on whether divorce laws should be changed to allow for the recognition of such deals.

At present, there is no specific provision in Irish divorce law to recognise pre-nuptial agreements.

Fine Gael Senator Fergal Browne, who has tabled a private members' motion on the matter, says all aspects of the situation must be examined closely, including the potential impact on the constitutional rights of women and children.