We have initiated Judicial Review Proceedings against the Department For Social Development in respect of their decision to remove our client’s Widowed Parents Allowance when her partner recently began to reside at her home.
In recent times, a decision was made to allow widowed spouses of Royal Ulster Constabulary Officers to retain their Widows Allowance should they commence a subsequent relationship. We have made the submission to the High Court that there should be no discrimination between ordinary widows and widows of Royal Ulster Constabulary Officers.
We are firmly of the view that the current policy of the Department For Social Development is at odds with the conventions of marriage and private life.
This is a case that involves far-reaching human rights issues and it is currently before the court.
