Jan O'Sullivan
Question:645 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the consideration, if any, he has given to extending family law courts in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1045/00]
Written Answers. - Family Law Courts.
At present, family law cases throughout the country can be heard at the appropriate local court venue which has jurisdiction in the matter at circuit and district court level.
In November 1998 the Working Group on a Courts Commission made its final report to me which included recommendations on the future development of family law courts. These recommendations are currently being considered by the Courts Service which was established by me on 9 November 1999 to oversee the general management and administration of the courts. Moreover, one of the key issues in the Government's An Action Programme for the Millennium is the establishment of regional family courts. The courts service has been informed of this Govern ment objective in the context of the development of Courts Service policy.
The Deputy will be aware that I have approved significant additional funding for the improvement of court accommodation by the new Courts Service throughout the country. Where court accommodation is being replaced or upgraded, special facilities are being put in place for family law.