Proposed Legislation.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 February 2004

Tuesday, 3 February 2004

Ceisteanna (309)

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

438 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he intends to repeal the provision in the Juries Act 1976 which describes persons who are deaf as incapable of serving on a jury, in view of advances in technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2744/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am of the view that the wording used in the Juries Act 1976 describing deaf people — and others — as "incapable persons"— in the context of serving on a jury — is dated. I have asked that the matter be borne in mind in the context of any future review of the legislation in question. Such a review would encompass the categories of persons deemed ineligible and excusable as of right from serving on juries.