Vol. 448 No. 3
35 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform the progress, if any, he has made in drafting new legislation in relation to joint ownership of the marital home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1989/95]
The Supreme Court decision that the Matrimonial Home Bill, 1993 was repugnant to the Constitution represented a set back to the idea that joint ownership of the matrimonial home should be automatic within marriage. However, it has always been my view that the law should promote joint ownership of the family home to the greatest extent allowable within the parameters of that judgment. Among the options I am considering is one for legislation which would facilitate simplified arrangements for voluntary conveyances of family homes into joint ownership. The aim of such legislation would be to enable couples to give full and effective recognition to the contribution made by the spouse who works in the home, without having to undergo needless expense or formality.
