Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I, too, join in welcoming the publication of the Cooke report which was completed expeditiously. The terms of reference given to Mr. Justice John Cooke clearly set out his role. I do not recollect any criticism of the terms of reference being put forward at the time. The report is about establishing and clearing the air on issues that were brought into the public domain. He has brought the clarification that was required.

About 18 months ago, I raised the taxation of costs in the High Court. We have two Taxing Masters in place. There is a problem in that there is undue delay in getting decisions concerning the taxation of costs. As a result, a large number of people who were involved in High Court cases are not being paid. Some have not been paid for three years after a case has finished. Some 18 months ago, I tabled an Adjournment debate matter seeking a third Taxing Master. It would be the solution to the problem as it is cost neutral. Anyone who wants to tax costs in the High Court must pay a fee to the office of the High Court to have the costs taxed. I request the Leader to bring this matter to the attention of the Minister for Justice and Equality. If necessary, we should have a debate on it. Many people have not recovered the costs and fees they incurred in doing work, including presenting evidence in the High Court. It is time to resolve the issue.

I am raising this point as a number of people have decided to take judicial review proceedings because of the delays involved. They have decided to take the matter back into the High Court for an adjudication. It is time for the Minister for Justice and Equality to act, so I am asking the Leader to bring this matter to her attention. If necessary, we should debate it in this House.