Government sets out timetable for implementation of Peter Kelly report

Helen McEntee

A number of the 90 recommendations in his report, which was published in December 2020, have already been implemented. The remaining recommendations will be implemented on a phased basis up to the end of 2024, with progress reports submitted to ministers each year.

Justice minister Helen McEntee said: “The report of the review of the administration of civil justice, also known as the Peter Kelly Report, made over 90 recommendations. When implemented, those recommendations will represent the most significant reform to civil law in the history of our State.

“The accompanying implementation plan sets out how we will achieve these ambitious reforms, with the goal of enabling easier, cheaper and quicker access to civil justice by improving procedures, reducing the costs of litigation and reducing delays.

“We are working closely with the Courts Service, which is implementing its own ambitious Courts Modernisation Programme in a way that aligns closely with the actions under this Plan to ensure better outcomes for all court users.”

She added: “I am pleased to say that six of the actions under this implementation plan have already been completed, including changes to Rules of Court to encourage compliance with time limits to reduce delays.

“Substantial progress has also been made on the increased use of video conferencing across courtrooms and we will seek to continue to accelerate the digitalisation of our courts to ensure that justice is accessible for everyone.

“I look forward to seeing more actions implemented in the coming months and years and to delivering a modern civil justice system that serves the people of Ireland now and into the future.”