Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 November 2004
236 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has provided sufficient resources to enable the courts to deal with their workload; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27425/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Courts Service is responsible for the day-to-day management of the courts. Under the Courts Service Act 1998, the service is independent in the performance of its functions, which include the provision, management and maintenance of court buildings and the listing of cases.
I am, inter alia, responsible for ensuring that the service is adequately funded, and in that regard €97.49 million was provided in 2004. Having regard to the statutory independence of the Courts Service, the Deputy will appreciate that it is a matter for the service to decide how the funding provided is specifically allocated. The funding provided allows the service to implement its strategic plans and policies, and I am confident that the level of funding provided is adequate not only to maintain the existing levels of service but also to provide for their improvement.
