Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept fully the point made by the Deputies that the time is restrictive. However, I understand these amendments have the support of the Judiciary and the Attorney General and are perceived as measures that do not infringe in any way on the rights of those concerned. In fact, the removal of the "on notice" requirement to make it ex partedoes not infringe in any way as it is the State, if one likes, that arguably is not getting notification. It simply means the State will not be obliged to turn up, with all the attendant legal costs of turning up at an ex partehearing.

All that would be done in any case would be short-listing and the weeding out of cases. From the State's point of view, this measure will save money without in any way eroding the rights of those seeking a judicial review. It is a good and sensible measure, which will help put gardaí back on the street, thereby saving money. The judicial system has become terribly tangled up. That more than half of cases arise from judicial reviews in this area illustrates the need to streamline the system.

The Minister for Justice and Equality will consider reducing the number of registration centres, while remaining conscious of the requirement to have due regard to the needs of clients. She intends that any rationalisation will be accompanied by customer-friendly developments such as online appointment systems and greater use of online applications. She is also willing to engage in consultation where concerns arise regarding the revised structure. She will be sensitive to the needs and views of those who will be directly affected by the introduction of an alternative structure. The large number of registration centres and the commitment of Garda resources this entails is not a good deployment of scarce Garda time.

I thank Deputies for their willingness to accommodate this welcome reform. The sooner the changes are made, the sooner their benefit will emerge.

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