Paul Kehoe
Ceist:644. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice the waiting times for the granting of probate in the Probate Office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25838/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 18 May 2021
Ceisteanna (644)
Freagraí scríofa
Under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in its functions. However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has provided the following update on the District Probate Registry in Wexford.
The current waiting time in the District Probate Registry in Wexford is 14 – 16 weeks. The Courts Service advises that the Office experienced a temporary resourcing issue which led to an increase in waiting times. Normally, it would be possible to address such problems by temporarily bringing resources from other offices to back fill posts. However operational risks, including the risk of cross office infection arising from Covid-19, currently limit this option.
I am informed that the Wexford Court Office and the acting County Registrar notified the local Solicitors Associations of the situation and explained that it would lead to a temporary increase in waiting times.
I have been advised that the issue has since been resolved. Outstanding applications are being worked through and the Wexford Office expects waiting times to improve in the coming weeks and months.