Timeline needed for publication of legislation on pre-nuptial agreements – Ó Cuív

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Agriculture, Éamon Ó Cuív TD, has called on the Minster for Justice to publish the timescale on the introduction of plans to make pre-nuptial agreements binding in Irish law.

Reports today suggest that Minister Alan Shatter plans on introducing legislation to have pre-nuptial agreements recognised in Irish law.

Deputy Ó Cuív commented: “Farmers and farming in Ireland has long called for pre-nuptial agreements to be recognised in Irish law.

“The fact that these agreements are not recognised has led to the slower transfer of land to younger famers especially. Recognising pre-nuptial agreements in Irish law is essential as marriage breaks-up are a reality of modern Ireland.

“One of the major reasons why land is not being transferred to younger farmers, is the perceived fear that land held for generations in families may be lost in the event of a marriage break-up. This is preventing young farmers from taking over the land at an earlier age and growing the farm.

“While any attempt to recognise pre-nuptial agreements is welcome, there are a number of structural problems in Irish law that need to be addressed to promote easier land transfer.

“I would urge the Minister to publish his recommendations immediately so we get an idea of the timescale for the introduction of the legislation.”