Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

Some months ago the Government announced its intention to increase the number of High Court, Circuit Court and District Court judges. I believe it was proposed to add two to the High Court and three or four in the District Court, but nothing happened. We now have the Courts and Court Officers (Amendment) Bill, which allows for an additional four judges in the High Court, three in the Circuit Court and up to six in the District Court. They may not all be appointed. As we know all courts have long waiting lists. We all accept the principle that justice delayed is justice denied and the matter is urgent. No appointments can be made without the passage of this legislation. When will this House take the Bill?