asked the Minister for Justice if he will state in respect of each of the years 1941 to 1945, inclusive (1) the persons other than established civil servants employed as official stenographers in the Courts of Justice (a) in Dublin, and (b) outside Dublin; (2) the total sum paid by way of remuneration to each such person; (3) the methods of recruitment or engagement for the service, and (4) the principle on which remuneration for the work is determined.
Written Answer. - Remuneration of Court Stenographers.
Mr. Boland
During the period in question the work of taking verbatim notes in connection with criminal trials in the Circuit Court in Dublin was performed by three stenographers. The same persons were also employed in the Central Criminal Court and, when available, in criminal trials in the Circuit Court outside Dublin. Since 1st January, 1944, they have been paid at the rate of £430, £380, and £320 per annum, inclusive. Prior to that date the salaries were £400, £350, and £310. Provision was also made for the employment and payment of assistants, in connection with the preparation of transcripts, as required. The three stenographers were appointed by the Minister for Justice. Originally they were paid by fees but in 1927 they were offered and accepted annual salaries.
Outside Dublin local reporters were employed, when required, by the county registrars on the authority of the Minister for Justice at fees of two guineas a day (one guinea for a period of three hours or less) plus 8d. per folio for transcripts.
None of the stenographers is an established civil servant.