Vol. 569 No. 3
377 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that under the European Convention of Human Rights both parties are supposed to be treated equally during and after the dissolution of the marriage; his views on whether Ireland conforms with the said requirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17522/03]
The Deputy's question relates to Protocol 7 to the European Convention on Human Rights rather than to the Convention itself. Article 5 of the protocol, which was ratified by Ireland on 3 August 2001, provides:
Spouses shall enjoy equality of rights and responsibilities of a private law character between them, and in their relations with their children, as to marriage, during marriage and in the event of its dissolution. This Article shall not prevent states from taking such measures as are necessary in the interests of the children.
I am satisfied that Ireland complies with this provision.
