Dáil Éireann - Volume 414 - 10 December, 1991

Written Answers. - Small Claims Procedures.

Mr. Quinn Mr. Quinn

736

146. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the experiences in the UK concerning the operation of a small fines court; and if he proposes, in the context of the recently announced pilot project, to establish close monitoring procedures to see if an interventionist role for the judge is both [736] necessary and desirable; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke) Raphael P. Burke

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke): I am delighted to inform the Deputy that the small claims procedure commenced today in four venues.

I must emphasise that this is a pilot scheme and will be subject to constant monitoring over the trial period, by my officials, by court staff, and independently by the President of the District Court.

I am aware of the latest developments in and experience of the operation of small claims procedures in neighbouring jurisdictions.

During the pilot period I will be reviewing all aspects of the procedures, including the role of the court, and I will be inviting the views of all interested parties, including those of the consumers who use the procedure. All submissions, including those I have already received, will be given due consideration.

Dáil Éireann 414 Written Answers. Small Claims Procedures.

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