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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Jun 1998

Vol. 493 No. 2

Written Answers. - Court Procedures.

Pat Carey

Question:

59 Mr. P. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals, if any, he has for introducing fast track trials for certain serious offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15346/98]

Marian McGennis

Question:

105 Ms M. McGennis asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress, if any, made in relation to the abolition of preliminary examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15356/98]

Tony Killeen

Question:

113 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which the court system will be streamlined to ensure that the trial involving drug dealing offences will take place within 90 days of arrest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15352/98]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 59, 105 and 113 together.

I point out that organisation of the business of the courts is a matter for the presidents of the courts. In relation to drug dealing offences, I inform the Deputy that these are generally dealt with in the Circuit Court. In this regard I am informed that where cases are ready to proceed they are given hearing dates within three months of the date of arraignment.

The Criminal Justice (No. 2) Bill, 1997, which is currently before the House, contains provisions which abolish the preliminary examination procedure in the District Court. In so far as this procedure contributes to delays in bringing cases to trial it should help to speed up trials and reduce such delays.

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