President Danny Faure has signed into law the amendments to the Civil Status Act which will require that fees charged for the celebration of marriage by Civil Status officers at private venues are paid into the Consolidated Fund.

Officers who celebrate marriages at private venues will in turn receive an allowance for such functions in accordance with a Scheme of Service.

Under the Act as amended, the Minister will make Regulations concerning the level of fees charged for such services, the times at which ceremonies can be held, and any related matters.

The amendments will bring greater order and transparency to the provision of these services.