17/07/2014

Court Of Appeal Bill 2014 Passes Both Houses

The Court of Appeal Bill 2014 has successfully passed through both the Dáil and the Seanad.

The Bill follows a referendum held last October, which asked the public about establishing a court of appeal. The Court of Appeal Bill 2014, published on 4th July, provides for the establishment of the new Court and makes the necessary legislative provision to ensure that it is accommodated within the existing courts’ structure.

Welcoming the passing of the Bill, Fine Gael Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, said: "This is the biggest reform in the organisation of our courts system since the foundation of the State. This Bill paves the way for changes in our courts system which will be radical and far-reaching."

"I am very conscious of the overwhelming support which the Bill received in its passage. This affirms the fact that reform in this area has been long-awaited and I am pleased that I am in a position to bring the legislative phase of this project to a successful conclusion."

"Other arrangements of an implementing nature are already in train to ensure that the Court of Appeal will be operational in October."

The Bill will shortly go to the President for signature.

(MH/IT)

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