Parent of a British child

Hello everyone

I was here for over 2 years whilst my husbands visa appeal was processing. I am now back for some advice for a friend.

My friend has recently had a child with her partner who lives in Ireland. The problem is that her partner is currently going through a divorce with a previous UK national through whom he has an Irish visa. He does not have a UK visa.

Can the partner apply for the parental route and come to the UK on the basis of his British child?

Any advice is welcome.

Thank you in advance

Anyone??