asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware of the great delay that occurs in the registration of applications in the Land Registry and in the handling of matters incidental thereto; whether other representations have been made to him in reference to this; and, if so, on what date, and if he will indicate what steps he proposes to take to obviate the inconvenience caused to practitioners and their clients.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Registration of Land Registry Applications.
Mr. Boland
I am aware that the position in regard to the matters referred to in the question is unsatisfactory. The cause of the delays and resultant inconvenience is shortage of staff combined with a marked increase in the volume of business which has to be dealt with. I received representations in the matter last July from the Incorporated Law Society. My Department has been giving active consideration to the problem of providing the necessary extra assistance and I am hopeful that it will be found possible, without undue delay, to bring about a considerable improvement in the position.
Will the Minister say whether, having regard to the inconvenience caused, it is the intention to provide extra staff?
Mr. Boland
That is what I am trying to do.
For the benefit of the Minister's colleague, the Minister for Finance, is he aware that delays in regard to the copying of documents are from eight to ten weeks and in regard to the registration of title months? Will the Minister take steps to deal with the matter without delay in order to put an end to that unsatisfactory state of affairs?