The Gazette 1967/71

that coupled with the impending new legislation the use of parchment is virtually ended. At the same time the problem of preserving our records arises. Parchment forms have stood the test of time from 1708 and are still in excellent condition. 1 doubt that paper forms will prove as durable. Where advantage is taken of the Minister's author ity, which at the same time gives the Registrar discretionary powers in the matter, unnecessary delays will be avoided if you inform your mem bers that memorials and applications for negative searches should be presented on the best quality deed paper available (e.g. goatskin parchment paper) and that the contents should be typed. It would help considerably too if creasing the forms could be avoided and they should conform to present dimensions and lay out. Later we hope to be in a position to suggest a form and size for memorials which will suit our records system and we will probably be able to include a specimen in the new bill." Jury Service Liability Mr. R. Barry asked the Minister for Justice if he is prepared to put into effect the recommen dations of the committee appointed by him in 1965 by introducing amending legislation which will provide for (a) the abolition of the present limitation of liability for jury service to a small number of the adult population which for prac tical purposes consists of farmers, shopkeepers and other self-employed persons, and (b) the proper remuneration of persons called on to per form jury service. Mr. O'Malley: I am having comprehensive legislation prepared to deal with all aspects of jury system. However, it will be some time before I shall be in a position to introduce this legislation due to the fact that priority must be given to other more urgent legislative proposals. Cavan Courthouse Mr. T. J. Fitzpatrick (Cavan) asked the Minister for Justice if he will explain why the courtroom and bar-room of Cavan courthouse were excluded BAIL QUESTIONS

from a scheme of decoration and improvement carried out in the courthouse some years ago; and if he will take steps to have the courtroom and bar-room modernised in accordance with modern thinking. Mr. O'Malley: The provision and maintenance of courthouse accommodation in Cavan is the re sponsibility of the Cavan County Council. I can not say why the courtroom and bar-room were not included in decoration and improvement work carried out some years ago. I may say that no complaints have been received in my Department in recent years in 'regard to the court accom modation in Cavan. I understand that the county council are exam ining the question of modernising the courtroom. Some improvements could also be made to the bar-room and I will have this brought to the attention of the county council. Mr. T. J. Fitzpatrick (Cavan): Is the Minister aware that since this question was tabled work has commenced on the decoration of the bar room? I would like to take the opportunity of thanking the county manager and those con cerned for this. Is the Minister aware that the seating accom modation in the courtroom which is provided for the public, the press, and the legal profession is most uncomfortable? The acoustics are so bad that the general public have no idea what the judges are saying. Finally, would the Minister see to it that the ancient dock is removed from the building, in accordance with modern thinking? Mr. O'Malley: As the Deputy knows, most of the matters mentioned by him are really for the local authority. I would suggest he might take the matter up with them. Mr. T. J. Fitzpatrick (Cavan): I put down this question to the Minister for Local Government and it was transferred to the Minister for Justice. 1st February, 1971. Consumer Protection Legislation Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider introducing legislation that will tighten up on manufacturers' warranties and give consumers cheap and easy access to the courts to sue for refunds or damages. 221