Family law - A cruel struggle

Twenty years ago the Law Reform Commission called for a modernised, effective and accessible family law court structure.

It will not surprise anyone who takes an interest in how this country trundles from one crisis to the next that such a development — a standard, unquestioned brick in any modern society — is awaited.

Speaking ahead of a conference today, the Law Society has warned that our family law courts system is hardly fit for purpose and that it is straining under an ever-growing caseload, unacceptable delays, and inadequate facilities.