asked the Minister for Justice if he will give jurisdiction in matters of judicial separation, maintenance, property and custody of children to the District Court instead of the High Court.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - District Court Jurisdiction.
31.
The District Court already has power, in cases of desertion by husbands, to order maintenance of up to £15 per week for a wife and up to £5 per week for each child under 16 years. I am not satisfied that the District Court is the appropriate tribunal to deal with cases of judicial separation, related property questions or custody of children.
Is the Minister aware that there is a demand for this change?
I am not so aware. I am aware that there is considerable dissatisfaction with the present facilities available for these matters but I am not aware of a demand for a change to the District Court as such.