AQW 44322/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Finance

To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department plans to introduce Jade’s Law, or a similar legislative vehicle, that would suspend parental responsibility for parents who murder their partner or ex-partner.

Asked by Connie Egan MLA on 20 April 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
20 April 2026
Answer due by
6 May 2026
Answered
20 May 202630 days after tabling
Department
Department of Finance
Priority question
No

Answer

I have asked my officials to initiate detailed policy development now including provisions similar in effect to Jade’s Law, as part of a wider reform of parental responsibility and family law reforms.

While Jade’s law is on the statute books in Britain, it has not yet been enacted due to the complexities of the process. We can and will learn from there and elsewhere.

This approach will allow us to develop robust legislation that properly reflects our own legal system and will ultimately provide stronger protections for children and families affected by the most serious crimes.

I am committed to legislating to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people here. Undertaking this important work and developing this legislation will enable a Bill to be brought forward in the early part of the next mandate.

Official sources