Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 1

Written Answers. - Family Law.

Alan Shatter

Ceist:

591 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to change the law to facilitate limited reporting of family law cases while continuing to protect the anonymity of those involved in such cases before the Courts. [12073/02]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

The Deputy will know that a family law recording pilot project was established by the Courts Service in accordance with the recommendations in the sixth report of the working group on a courts commission. The main aims of the project are: to provide general information to the public about the day-to-day operation of the Family Law Courts; to provide statistical information on the Family Law Courts and to report on decisions of the Family Law Court.

I am aware that doubts have arisen in relation to the legality of any reporting of family law cases in the context of thein camera rule. I understand that the Courts Service Board is considering this issue and has obtained Counsel's advice in the matter. If the board conclude that the problem which has been encountered can only be resolved by legislative amendment I will be happy to consider its recommendations.