Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have the figures to hand. As I mentioned, management of the courts' services is a matter for the courts but I can certainly ask for and seek that information. I know every effort has been made to try to ensure that urgent cases involving the most vulnerable people in complex family situations and victims of sexual and domestic abuse have been seen. From 1 September, a huge amount of work has been done by the Chief Justice, the various presidents of the courts and the Department on seeking additional funding to support the courts in resuming services as much as possible. When I spoke to the Chief Justice prior to the summer recess his intention was that the courts would resume with a capacity of 70% to 80% in the autumn. This is the objective he wants to achieve.

With regard to the family courts Bill, I hope to have the heads of the Bill before the Government in the coming week or two. It will be quite a large Bill and I look forward to engaging with the Deputy on it.

The specific family court at Hammond Lane will be a significant development. I was pleased to be able to announce additional funding for it earlier in the summer and work will progress as soon as possible.

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