Anne Rabbitte (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for being in the House this evening and giving of his time and giving us a comprehensive overview as to why we should support this non-contentious legislation. It is important to say Fianna Fáil welcomes the debate and supports the Bill. It is a priority for Fianna Fáil to ensure that our court services are resourced to administer justice efficiently and effectively. It is also important to say that it was a commitment in the programme for Government and we are hopefully fulfilling this with the Minister this evening.

A modern courts and legal system is vital for ensuring fair access to justice and enhancing the overall experience of all users. The principal purpose of the Bill is to provide for an increase in the maximum number of judges in the District Courts, the Circuit Court, the High Court and the Court of Appeal. This is in line with the findings of the judicial planning working group report. We know from research and experience that the impact of additional judges can be extremely positive in improving waiting times and cutting the backlogs that existed in our courts for many years. It is heartening to hear the times outlined by the Minister. It is important that we recognise the reason that we are seeking to appoint more judges is not in order that people can become judges but to facilitate individuals in Ireland who seek access to the administration of justice and who require access to the courts in a timely fashion.

The Bill also provides for two technical amendments to the Child Care Act 1991 and the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. The Minister has said everything that needs to be said. I do not need to repeat it. It has been clearly demonstrated that the input of the other 24 judges is working really well and we should support this legislation. I thank him.