318. Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when the Civil Debt (Procedures) Bill 2015 will come into effect; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42464/15]

The Civil Debt (Procedures) Act 2015 is to be commenced in two phases. The provisions which relate to the abolition of imprisonment of debtors will be commenced once the required amendments can be made to the relevant Rules of Court, which I anticipate will be made early in 2016. The remaining provisions, concerning attachment of earnings and deductions from social welfare payments, will be commenced on completion of the necessary preparations by the Courts Service and the Department of Social Protection. While I am not in a position to give the Deputy a definitive timescale, I am committed to making the necessary Commencement Orders as quickly as possible.