Legislative Process

Wednesday, 13 May 2026

Ceisteanna (141)

Cian O'Callaghan

Ceist:

141. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration his position regarding delays in the implementation of the Court Proceedings Delays Act 2024; whether the Minister is concerned that such delays have left affected individuals without access to compensation; and further, given statutory requirements under the Central Bank Act that certain confirmation proceedings be heard and determined within three months; how a case (details supplied) could arise where an individual was subject to a Central Bank prohibition for a period of over three years pending a High Court decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35540/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

As the Deputy will appreciate, I am precluded from commenting on individual cases.

Under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in exercising its functions. The scheduling of court cases and the allocation of court business is a matter for the Presidents of the Courts and the presiding judges who are, under the Constitution, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions.

The Court Proceedings (Delays) Act 2024 provides parties with a right to conclusion of proceedings within a reasonable time. It provides for the establishment of an independent assessment process, to assess claims for breach of that right, and where appropriate, an award of compensation.

Arrangements to operationalise the requirements of the Act are currently being finalised. The recruitment process for personnel necessary to give effect to the Act is at an advanced stage (including the posts of Chief Assessor and Court Delays Assessors), with commencement of the Act scheduled for later this year.