Eoin Ryan
Ceist:18 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to expedite delays in criminal trials; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21798/96]
Vol. 471 No. 8
18 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to expedite delays in criminal trials; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21798/96]
Delays in the courts are of particular concern to me and I have taken steps to deal with these delays.
The Courts and Court Officers Act, 1995, provided for an increase of 18 in the maximum of judges of all the courts. I obtained Government approval for the appointment of 16 additional judges i.e. three Supreme Court judges, three High Court judges, seven Circuit Court judges and three District Court judges.
These additional judges have now all been appointed. The provision of these additional judges is enabling the current arrears of court business, including criminal cases, to be effectively tackled and will assist in the prompt disposal of cases in the future.
In addition, the Courts Act, 1996, which formed part of the Government's recent anti-crime package, provides for the appointment of three further Circuit Court judges.