Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 3

Written Answers. - Reform of Law on Occupiers' Liability.

John Bruton

Question:

205 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform the reason it was decided to refer the area of law on occupiers liability to the Law Reform Commission rather than legislate for the necessary reforms immediately.

Minister for Equality and Law Reform (Mr. Taylor)

The law on occupiers' liability has been in a state of transition since the Supreme Court's important decision in the mid-seventies in the case of McNamara v. ESB. Developments since that decision have underlined the need for a clear statutory statement in this matter.

However, the issue is one of considerable legal complexity, particularly since there are many different and competing interests involved. It was, therefore, felt that a necessary prelude to change in this difficult area would be an examination, by the Law Reform Commission, of the possible legal changes which could be implemented. As indicated to this House previously, the commission are expected to publish a consultation document on occupiers' liability at an early date.