Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is unusual and unprecedented for the Chief Justice to find herself issuing warnings on Supreme Court appeals being delayed because of the unprecedented number of appeals seeking priority hearings. According to the Irish Independent, 600 appeals were filed in 2012, which is double the number filed in 2007. What does the Government intend to do to respond to this situation in the context of the courts Bill? Is consideration being given to appointing a new court of appeal, which would require a referendum, to which, I understand, the Government is committed? Will the Taoiseach confirm that a referendum will take place? When does he expect the publication of the courts Bill?

While welcoming the sale of Irish Life to Great-West Lifeco's subsidiary, Canada Life (Ireland), 2,200 employees will be wondering about their fate in terms of security of tenure and employment? Has the Minister for Finance given guarantees to protect the workforce?

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