asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the statement by the President of the High Court that it is desirable that family cases be heard in courts situated in buildings separate from existing courts; and when he will provide alternative courts throughout the country to deal with family matters.
Written Answers. - Family Court Cases.
16.
I am not aware of any statement in those terms. A few years ago the President mentioned publicly that he was anxious that the separate accommodation for family courts in Dublin which was planned should become available shortly. That accommodation was, in fact, provided in 1978.
It is not envisaged that separate accommodation for family law cases will be provided outside Dublin as a matter of course, but such accommodation is being provided in the reconstruction of the courthouse at Waterford and the case for it will be examined in the context of any major building or reconstruction work at other venues. Family law cases are, however, dealt with at special times and often it is possible for them to be heard in chambers.