Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I support Senator Tuffy's amendment. It is important that we place an obligation on the court to fix a date for a return hearing within the eight day period. If we do not, an applicant could be at risk. A judge is in a better position to set the date rather than leaving the matter to the applicant or respondent. This amendment would guarantee that matters would be dealt with quickly, which is the principal purpose of the Bill. If the judge sets the date things are made easier for everybody.

Outside Dublin it is more difficult because courts sit less frequently. This amendment will ensure that the judge will set a date and decide where the case will be heard.