Woman challenges refusal to recognise her Portuguese divorce

An Irish-based Portuguese woman who wishes to marry her partner before their child is born has secured the permission of the High Court to challenge the Civil Registration Office's refusal to recognise her Portuguese divorce.

Paula Alves (aged 32), has brought the proceedings because she wants to marry Mr Shahid Kamal, a Pakistani national. The couple became engaged last June and are expecting their first child in late July. They were due to be married earlier this month but as a result of the refusal could not go ahead with the ceremony.