I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 21 together.
The subject of family courts is at present being examined by the Law Reform Commission. Once the commission's report has been received the matter will be considered fully by Government.
The designation of individual judges to specialise in one category of case would raise the question of how this could be achieved having regard to the independence of the Judiciary from the Executive and to the functions and responsibilities that the Chief Justice and the President of the other courts have for the overall allocation of the business of their courts.
Proposals for alteration in the day-to-day operation of the courts' services, including the arrangements for the hearing of family law cases, as well as questions regarding training for the Judiciary, would essentially be matters for the Minister for Justice to examine in consultation, where appropriate, with the Judiciary.
I will, of course, be liaising closely with my colleague, the Minister for Justice, in an endeavour to ensure that the service offered by our family courts matches to the greatest possible extent the requirements of those who need to avail of it.