Finian McGrath
Question:392 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the practice by employers applying for preliminary hearings to deal with legal issues before the Equality Tribunal prior to a normal hearing being held; if he will provide figures for the number of such applications made in each of the past four years and the number granted; the criteria used to decide whether such applications ought to be granted; his views on whether such applications are desirable practice given that employees involved have to devote additional time and expense in defending such legal applications; if the Equality Tribunal has the power to award expenses and costs to employees when such applications are successfully defended; if he is considering any legislative changes that will impact on such applications being made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31135/11]
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