Northern Ireland legalises same-sex marriage

As of yesterday, Northern Ireland now legally recognises same-sex marriage, which allows same-sex couples to marry. The first ceremonies will be able to take place in February. It also means that same-sex couples already married will now be legally recognised in Northern Ireland.

Couples who are in a civil partnership will not be able to convert to a marriage at this stage, however consultation is expected later this year about converting civil partnerships to same-sex marriages.