Payment of court damages
Deputy Moynihan asked that damages awarded by the High Court against Departments be paid immediately. The Minister said he had no specific information but reminded the House that the courts are independent.
The programme for Government addresses access to public services and the need for Departments to be closer to citizens. I understand that in a number of cases in which the High Court ruled against various Departments of State, payment by the relevant Departments has not yet commenced. Will the Taoiseach ensure that when the High Court awards damages to individuals in cases taken against Departments, these are paid immediately?
Comment on this
I do not have any knowledge of the matter raised. I would be happy to hear from the Deputy if he has any specific issues. I remind him, however, that the courts are independent of these Houses.