Denis Naughten
Ceist:954 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to decentralise the Courts Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22382/01]
Vol. 541 No. 2
954 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to decentralise the Courts Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22382/01]
It is the policy of the Courts Service, as stated in the Courts Service Strategic Plan, 2000 – 2003, to put in place regional management arrangements to facilitate the devolution of functions and budgets. I welcome this policy which is in keeping with Government policy. I must stress that the implementation of this policy is a matter for the Courts Service. I understand that the Service has no plans for further decentralisation. However, as the Deputy will be aware, the Courts Service already has offices all around the country.