John O'Dowd

The Department of Finance is consulting on three options for divorce law reform: bringing Northern Ireland in line with the regime south of the border, or that in England and Wales, or making no substantive changes.

Northern Ireland’s current legislation on divorce, introduced in 1978, is hybrid, allowing for divorce on grounds of fault (unreasonable behaviour, adultery and desertion) or no-fault (evidenced by separation).

The dissolution of a civil partnership similarly comprises fault and no-fault grounds, although adultery is not a ground for the dissolution of a civil partnership.

Finance minister John O’Dowd said: “Many marriages and civil partnerships are loving, happy and last a lifetime but unfortunately some don’t and break down for a number of reasons.

“This can have a devastating effect on those families especially where children are involved and can lead to additional and unnecessary conflict.

“We now want to consult on options that could reduce the conflict that can arise from divorce or dissolution leading to better outcomes for everyone affected.

“I would encourage all those with an interest in changing the current law or retaining the current arrangements to have their say and contribute to this important consultation.”

The consultation will run from 23 June to 26 September 2025.