Tony Gregory
Question:309 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the limits for the Small Claims Court; and if he will consider an increase in the limits in view of the successful operation of this scheme. [3945/03]
Vol. 561 No. 2
309 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the limits for the Small Claims Court; and if he will consider an increase in the limits in view of the successful operation of this scheme. [3945/03]
The small claims procedure is a special mechanism for dealing with consumer claims within the District Court structure which is designed to handle such claims speedily, inexpensively and informally without involving a solicitor. It is administered by the Small Claims Registrar whose function it is to process the claims and, if possible, reach a satisfactory settlement without the need for a court hearing. The current threshold for small claims applications is €1,269.74, which has been the upper limit since July 1999.