Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2013
161. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider increasing jurisdiction of District Court to €20,000 bearing in mind that the average value of an award for motor liability which comprises 75% of the total awards of the Injuries Board in 2012 was just over €20,000 and the District Court has the capacity to deal with cases more speedily; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21995/13]
View answerThe Courts Bill 2013 will introduce new monetary jurisdiction limits for both the District and Circuit Courts which broadly reflect the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) since 1991 by increasing the limits to €15,000 in the District Court and €75,000 in the Circuit Court. An exception is provided for personal injuries actions, where the Circuit Court jurisdiction will be limited to €60,000.
The Bill, while providing for a significant increase in the existing limits to the amounts that may be awarded by the lower courts, provides for awards with similar purchasing power, in real terms, to the monetary limits introduced by the Courts Act 1991.
I have noted the Deputy's suggestion that the District Court level be increased to €20,000 However as the Deputy is aware, the District Courts are very busy courts dealing with matters summarily and the Government's view is that a relatively cautious approach is warranted to ensure that a balance can be maintained between the jurisdiction levels and the likely case load. I intend however to keep this matter under review.
