Vol. 475 No. 6
134 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Justice whether serving jurors are entitled to claim any costs for such service in relation to transport, meals, and loss of income; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5532/97]
There is no provision in the Juries Act, 1976 for the payment out of State funds of expenses to jurors. When the Act was introduced, consideration was given to the matter of expenses but it was decided that expenses should not be paid as performance of jury service is considered to be a basic civil duty which arises relatively infrequently as far as the individual is concerned.
In certain criminal trials, where the issue is one of security and protection of the jury, jurors may where necessary be provided with lunch.
Section 29 of the Act does, however, make provision for employees to be paid by their employers when engaged on jury service.
