Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 7

Written Answers. - Departmental Offices.

Tom Enright

Question:

76 Mr. Enright asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the transfer of the Land Registry from Dublin to Waterford in relation to transactions from counties Laois and Offaly will cause considerable difficulties for legal practitioners and for the general public in Laois and Offaly in view of the distance people will have to travel to the new Land Registry Office in Waterford; and if he will consider retaining this office in Dublin or alternatively transferring these sections to a Land Registry Office in the midland area. [16858/97]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

While I am aware that some members of the legal profession from the counties mentioned by the Deputy have concerns about the decentralisation to Waterford, I am satisfied that any teething problems will be promptly addressed. The Registrar of Titles has communicated regularly with members of the legal profession practising in the counties concerned keeping them informed of the position and assuring them of increased levels of service from the new location.

I believe that the general policy of decentralisation is correct and that the revised arrangements for Land Registry services are justified by the benefits accruing to the local community in Waterford.