Gay couples on the Isle of Man will be able to participate in civil partnerships from next week, as the law surrounding same-sex unions was officially changed today.
From as early as next week, gay men and women will be allowed the same rights as married couples for inheritance, pensions and tax allowances.
The Civil Partnership Bill 2011 comes into force on
Wednesday, meaning couples can register for a ceremony to take place as
early as next week.
Homosexuality was illegal under Isle of Man law until 1992.
According to the BBC, assistant Chief Registrar Ian Gilmore said: "With effect from
6 April, prospective civil partners will be able to start the
procedures that will ultimately lead to them signing a civil partnership
schedule, and from that point onwards law will recognise their
partnership."
