asked the Minister for Justice if he will endeavour to have delays in the principal probate registry eliminated as such delays are causing considerable annoyance and inconvenience to the general public.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Probate Registry Delays.
Mr. Boland
I understand that in recent years there has been some delay in the issue of grants of probate or administration by the principal probate registry. These delays have been due to an increase in the volume of the work over the last few years, and the position was aggravated this year by an accumulation of arrears during the period of the bank strike.
I am informed that the peak point has now been passed, and that an improvement in the position may be expected from now on.
Mr. O'Higgins
Would the Minister take some steps to ensure that there is a survey of the staffing arrangement in the probate registry and other registries in the Four Courts? They are under-staffed.
Mr. Boland
I understand there has been an improvement in that respect lately.
Mr. O'Higgins
The Minister should consult his records and he will find that that is not so.