Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Jul 1996

Vol. 468 No. 4

Written Answers. - Court Fees Tax.

Alan Shatter

Question:

556 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Justice the reason stamp duty is payable in respect of family law proceedings commenced in the High Court pursuant to the Judicial Separation and Family Law Reform Act, 1989, and on legal costs taxed in High Court proceedings brought under this Act in view of the fact that such stamp duty arises when proceedings are initiated in the Circuit Court; and if she will have arrangements made to exempt such proceedings in both the Circuit Court and the High Court from the payment of stamp duties. [14948/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

The court fees payable in the Supreme, High and Circuit Courts in respect of court proceedings are set out in the Supreme Court and High Court (Fees) Order, 1989 (SI No. 341 of 1989) and the Circuit Court (Fees) Order, 1989 (SI No. 342 of 1989). These orders exempt proceedings brought under specified family law legislation from the payment of court fees. The Judicial Separation and Family law Reform Act, 1989, was not included in the specified legislation. I am currently reviewing these orders and will make known any decisions I might make following that review.