John Kelly (Labour)

There seems to be no consistency in how District Court judges determine maintenance payments when families split up. In many cases in Roscommon which involve couples on social welfare, I noted a judge made an award of €80 to the woman who had custody of the children. In other neighbouring counties, if the man takes charge of the children, the judge will determine he gets a payment of €5. Some judges are putting people into consistent poverty through the awards they make. Talking to solicitors, I note many of these judges do not have the expertise to deal with these issues and come down on men unfairly over women. Will the Leader organise a debate on this matter? I am all for what is reasonable and fair so that those on social welfare can make the payments awarded by judges.