Overview of the Act Application of the Act to Northern Ireland
9.Under the provisions of Schedule 2 to the Northern Ireland Act 1998 matters relating to National Insurance contributions are “excepted” from the competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Act therefore amends any relevant Northern Ireland legislation.
10.The Northern Ireland Act 1998 transferred responsibility for statutory payments to the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Act, with the agreement of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Department for Social Development [(the Northern Ireland Assembly being suspended at the time the Act was introduced) – DN check with Andrew] also amends the relevant Northern Ireland legislation relating to SSP and SMP.