Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2020
238. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the discussions he has had with the Courts Service to ensure speedier hearings of court cases in relation to asylum and immigration in the courts and in particular cases involving judicial review proceedings relating to asylum; the results of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10221/20]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions. Furthermore, the scheduling of court cases and the allocation of court business are matters for the Presidents of the Courts and the presiding judges who are, under the Constitution, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions.
I can therefore inform the Deputy that no discussions have taken place between me or my Department officials and the Courts Service in relation to the matter referred to.
I am informed that there were no delays in the hearing of Immigration cases in the High Court prior to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions being implemented.
