Enda Kenny
Question:762 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if all judges appointed are competent to hear and decide on court cases through the medium of Irish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1536/98]
Written Answers. - Court Cases in Irish.
There are judges on the benches of each of the courts competent to hear cases through the medium of Irish. In assigning judges of the District Court to districts which include an area in which Irish is in general use, every effort is made, in so far as is practical, to ensure that these judges have a sufficient knowledge of Irish to enable them to hear cases through Irish. In addition, interpreters are made available as required to facilitate the giving of evidence through Irish. Competency to hear and dispose of cases through Irish is not an eligibility requirement for appointment as a judge.