Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The vast majority. It is an important direction to head in.

A number of Senators mentioned the new case management system, which is very important and will ensure a more efficient system. Senator Jillian van Turnhout referred to the importance of a Supreme Court that functions in a way that conforms to the best practice in other jurisdictions. For this to happen, the Supreme Court needs to be freed from the more routine cases that are clogging the system at present. Senator Lorraine Higgins made the same point and talked about the benefits that would come from the new system.

I think I have covered other points and the amount of resources put towards this. We are also reviewing the appointments system and work is ongoing on it. We have had a public consultation process and received 40 submissions, which are being examined. These address issues such as the role of the Judicial Appointments Advisory Board, its members and how the system of appointment of judges should be reformed. It is also on the agenda and I expect to publish the judicial council Bill in late September or October.

In concluding the debate on Second Stage, I thank the Senators who contributed to the debate. A significant impetus behind the establishment of the court of appeal is the necessity for legal certainty, which is crucial to the smooth running of a democratic society and essential for the economy. Structures have been set up in preparation for the establishment of the court, which will facilitate it in meeting the demands of this rapidly changing legal and economic environment. By putting forward the Bill, we have taken the opportunity to provide the Supreme Court with the tools it needs to function to optimal effect and to ensure that its status as the highest court in our land is enhanced and that it can concentrate its efforts on developing the law in a considered and more rational way. I thank the Senators who have contributed.