Once enacted, the Family Courts Bill 2022 will provide for the establishment of family court divisions within the existing court structures, a Family High Court, a Family Circuit Court, and a Family District Court.

Judges who have specialist training or experience in dealing with family law matters will be assigned to the Family Courts divisions on a full-time basis.

“I have prioritised reform of the family justice system since becoming justice minister, working to make family justice processes safer, cheaper, more efficient, and less adversarial,” Helen McEntee said.

“Securing the passage of this historic, reforming legislation is a huge step in reaching this goal and something of which I am immensely proud as this is an important element of my family justice strategy.

“For those involved in family law cases in the courts, the current system is far from satisfactory and can, at times, make what is already an incredibly emotionally challenging experience seem even more difficult.

“The Family Courts Bill provides for new, dedicated family court structures which will support those who need to reach a resolution to issues such as relationship breakdown, custody and guardianship arrangements, and maintenance payments.

“Children will be put front and centre of the newly reformed family justice system.

“The bill contains a set of guiding principles for the family court system, making the best interests of the child a primary consideration in the conduct of all family law proceedings, operating in an efficient and user-friendly manner, and encouraging active case management by the courts.”

She added: “Additional wording was also inserted in the bill’s guiding principles during its passage through the Houses to better protect victims and survivors of domestic violence.

“The amendments are aimed at ensuring the safety of parties to proceedings, including when considering whether parties should engage in mediation or other forms of alternative dispute resolution.

“New provisions regarding prohibition on personal cross examination have also been inserted in the Family Courts Bill, similar to those in the Domestic Violence Act 2018.”