andMr. L. Burke asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will consider amending the regulations governing deserted wives' allowances so that women living here, who have been divorced abroad at the instigation of their husbands, can qualify for the allowance.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Deserted Wives' Allowances.
15.
The scheme of allowances for deserted wives has been in operation only since 1st October, 1970, and, as I have previously pointed out, it is being kept under review with a view to making such improvements in it as experience may show to be desirable. The type of case referred to in the question will be kept in mind when any amendment of the scheme is being considered.
Does the Minister know that wives who have been divorced by their husbands in England are being refused the deserted wives' allowance here?
Yes.
Could something not be done about this? This is a very limited type of case and would only cover very few people. Could something not be done to include them in the deserted wives' allowances scheme?
There are some 24 cases—most of them may be on appeal —but it is a question of whether a divorced wife is a deserted wife.
Would a woman be allowed to re-marry in this country? She would not, and therefore she is to all intents and purposes deserted by her husband who has divorced her abroad, and from the point of view of this country only, she is a deserted wife and should be treated as such.
Permit divorce and allow alimony.
In the cases the Deputy refers to there may have been a financial settlement.