Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I do not propose to accept this amendment. Throughout the preparation of this legislation, where a court process was deemed necessary, it was always considered appropriate for the court to be the Circuit Court sitting as the family court. The nature of the family court is appropriate to the confidential nature of the matter being considered.

With regard to the hearing of appeals from applicants for gender recognition certificates and the exemption of processes for 16 and 17 year olds, the level of the Circuit Court is appropriate due to the importance of these issues. Section 36 provides that the matter may be heard by a judge of the Circuit Court in the area in which the applicant concerned ordinarily resides. I am not accepting the amendment for the reasons outlined. I can forward this reply to the Senator if it would be helpful.