Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Mar 2000

Vol. 515 No. 6

Written Answers. - Registration of Title.

Willie Penrose

Question:

55 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps, if any, being taken to deal with the huge backlog at the Land Registry (details supplied); the number of dealings waiting to be processed at the latest date for which figures are available; his views on whether it is acceptable that the registry can accept phone calls for only one hour per day at its Dublin office; when the promised additional staff will take up duties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6852/00]

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

I refer the Deputy to my comprehensive reply to Parliamentary Question No. 81 on 2 February 2000.

In relation to the provision of additional staff, on foot of the Department of Finance sanction received, the Land Registry have requested the Civil Service Commission for the assignment of 45 additional staff, 24 executive officers and 21 clerical officers, as a matter of urgency. Arrangements are being made to fill some of the other posts sanctioned internally.