Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 257: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Courts Service has adequate resources to process cases quickly and efficiently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31061/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, the Courts Service is responsible for the day to day management of the courts and I am responsible for ensuring that the Service is adequately funded. The Estimates for 2006 include €19.6m to enable the Service to continue its ambitious nationwide programme of Courthouse renovation and refurbishment. Ten significant projects are either underway or will commence this year. Negotiations are currently underway between the Courts Service and the preferred tenderer for the new PPP Criminal Court Complex.

Since 2002, the statutory maximum number of ordinary judges of the Supreme, High, Circuit and District Courts has increased from 108 to 128, an increase of 20 judicial positions. The additional judicial resources provided have greatly strengthened the capacity of the courts system to meet the demands placed on it and I am keeping the need for further judicial resources under review. In addition, this year's estimates include €9.4m to support major IT modernisation initiatives such as the Civil Case Management System, the delivery of court services by electronic means and courtroom technology upgrades. I am confident that the level of funding provided to the Courts Service is adequate to maintain existing levels of service.

Having regard to the statutory independence of the Courts Service, the Deputy will appreciate that it is a matter for the Service to decide how the funding provided is specifically allocated. The funding provided allows the Service to implement its strategic plans and policies and I am confident that the level of funding provided is adequate, not only to maintain the existing levels of service, but also to provide for their improvement.