Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2026
1370. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether his Department has assessed whether delays in substantive domestic violence proceedings may increase risks to applicants, including repeat incidents or breaches requiring Garda intervention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42613/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe management of court proceedings are matters for the Courts Service and the independent judiciary.
Where breaches of court orders or alleged criminal offences arise, these are matters for investigation by An Garda Síochána, who are operationally independent in the exercise of their functions.
My Department has not conducted a specific review of the nature outlined by the Deputy. I am, however, conscious of the impact that delays in courts proceedings can have on those involved in domestic violence cases, which can prolong uncertainty for applicants and can be distressing for all parties concerned.
Supporting and protecting victims is a key priority for my Department. This commitment is underpinned by the Government’s Zero Tolerance Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence, which sets out a comprehensive whole of Government approach to preventing DSGBV, supporting victims, and strengthening the criminal justice response.
I am also committed to ensuring the effective operation of the family justice system. On 22 April 2026, I published the Implementation Plan for the Family Courts Act 2024. The Plan will result in some of the most significant reforms of the family justice system in the history of the state. The Family Courts Act 2024 contains a number of provisions designed to make the family court process a more efficient, accessible and user focused system, including through improved case management and measures designed to reduce delays.
The ongoing Modernisation Programme for the Courts Service, including the digitalisation of procedures, will also assist in improving the efficiency and timeliness of processing cases.
