Ms Eilis Barry:

The issue of costs is really complex and not just in terms of multiparty actions but generally. In FLAC's experience, costs are a huge disincentive to individuals bringing litigation of any kind. The courts have some discretion at the moment in awarding costs and perhaps that needs to be examined. A particular example would be the possibility of not awarding costs if the case is in the public interest or is a public interest-type matter.

That could be looked at. Limiting the costs - having some sort of protective costs order - is another idea. It is a complex issue. Separating multi-party actions from the issue of costs generally is problematic as well.