Mr. Chairman, this act won't apply to a legally married couple who have proceeded to get a divorce. Once a divorce is finished, they won't have recourse to apply for this. But, it is possible, if they choose not to get a divorce, stay legally married but informally separate, that they may use these provisions to seek support payments if they choose not to use divorce legislation to iron out discrepancies.
Stephen Kakfwi on Bill 5: An Act To Amend The Maintenance Act
In the Legislative Assembly on February 16th, 1995. See this statement in context.
Bill 5: An Act To Amend The Maintenance Act
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 15th, 1995
Page 140
See context to find out what was said next.