Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 December 2004
31 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties regarding the issue of search warrants arising from the decision in a case (details supplied); if he proposes to introduce legislation to deal with the consequences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32560/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe case to which the Deputy refers, Dylan Creaven Silicon Technologies (Europe) Limited & Anor v CAB & Anor, concerned the validity of a number of search warrants issued by the District Court. In that case the Supreme Court found, in particular, that warrants issued by a District Court judge were not valid because they were issued by the judge sitting outside the District Court districts to which he had been temporarily assigned.
I have referred the matter to the Attorney General for urgent advice. As soon as I have received and examined that advice I will take whatever action I consider necessary, including, if appropriate, the introduction of a legislative proposal to address the issues raised by the judgment.
