The first same-sex marriages in Northern Ireland are set to take place on Valentine’s Day next year. Campaigners for marriage equality say British government ministers have confirmed same-sex marriage will be legal from January 13, with couples having to wait 28 days after they submit their notice of intention to marry before they can have a ceremony. This will make February 14 the first day when same-sex couples can marry. The change to the law on same-sex marriage follows amendments from Labour MPs Conor McGinn and Stella Creasy to the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Bill, which was backed by MPs in July, to compel the British government to change the government at Stormont has not returned by October 21. MPs also voted to extend abortion access to the north. Speaking in the House of Lords last night, Northern Ireland Office Minister Lord Duncan of Springbank said: “Get ready for Valentine’s Day, because that is when they can do it. I can think of no better time than Valentine’s Day.”