asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the fact that a person whose case is set down may have to wait one and a half to two years and that due to financial pressures occasioned by these long delays many litigants are compelled to accept financial settlements far below that warranted on the basis of the injuries sustained, he will state the action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Litigation Delays.
19.
I am aware of a backlog of cases in the High Court.
I have proposals for legislation under examination at present designed to streamline procedures and expedite the hearing of actions. In addition, due to the increased jurisdiction of the Circuit Court, there has been a drop in the number of summonses issued in the High Court. Furthermore, a proposal for an increase in the number of High Court judges is under consideration.
Could the Minister state when it may be possible to appoint extra judges to the High Court?
I cannot say because the proposals are under consideration at the moment and any changes agreed to by the Government will involve legislation.
The Minister is aware that one judge in the High Court is at present serving in the Central Criminal Court.
A judge from the High Court is at all times engaged in the Central Criminal Court. If the Deputy means the Special Criminal Court, that is one of the reasons why the appointment of an extra judge is under consideration.