Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 11 Jun 1996

Vol. 466 No. 6

Written Answers. - Donegal Court Staff.

Mary Coughlan

Ceist:

111 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Justice the action, if any, she proposes to take to ensure that additional staff are appointed to the Court Clerk Offices in County Donegal, in order that they can deal with the administrative needs of the new Domestic Violence Act; and if her attention has been drawn to the fact that women who are seeking help are now directed to the Legal Aid Board which has a three month delay and that as a result women are now returning to abusive situations. [11985/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

The Domestic Violence Act, 1996, which came into force on 27 March 1996, amends the law on the protection of persons from violence in the home. It increases the reliefs available from the court and extends the categories of persons who can apply to the court for protection. The Act is very comprehensive and my Department is monitoring its effect on the level of business in all District Court offices, including the court offices in County Donegal, to establish if there is a need for additional resources in connection with the administrative needs that arise.

It is not part of the duties of District Court clerks to provide legal advice and legal assistance in relation to the Act. Where such legal advice or legal assistance is required, persons are advised to consult with a solicitor in private practice or with the Legal Aid Board, as appropriate.