President George Abela has signed the Divorce Bill and it is due to be published in the Government Gazette today, thus becoming law.

The law is expected to become effective on October 1, giving the government time to set up the administrative mechanism needed for people to be able to apply for divorce.

The House of Representatives approved the Bill by a large majority on Monday.

The Bill had been presented as a private member's motion by Nationalist MP Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando in July last year. It was subsequently co-sponsored by Labour MP Evarist Bartolo.

A referendum in May approved the introduction on divorce based on the no-fault concept. Estranged couples must be separated for four of the preceding five years in order to be eligible for divorce, and provision has to be made for the care of the children. Arrangements made in separation contracts are not affected.

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