Impact of work-to-rule on family courts
Summary
A work-to-rule action by public sector unions has caused repeated closures and adjournments at Dublin's Dolphin House family law court, creating significant stress for clients and risking a major backlog. While urgent domestic violence cases continue to be heard, family law solicitors warn that hundreds of access and maintenance cases are being delayed, potentially harming children. Women's Aid reassures victims that temporary protection orders remain valid despite administrative delays, while the union Forza states the action is intended to pressure employers to resolve the pay dispute.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Work-to-rule impact on Dublin family courts
Background on public sector pay dispute and work-to-rule
Court closures and lack of advance notice for hearings
Personal impact on a mother facing repeated adjournments
Prioritization of urgent domestic violence applications
Solicitor Sandra McAleer explains operational challenges
Estimate of adjourned cases and impact on children
Client stress and the need for priority on children's rights
Women's Aid CEO addresses anxiety over safety orders
Reassurance on legal status of temporary protection orders
Concerns regarding potential backlogs and advice to victims
Forza union statement on work-to-rule and dispute resolution
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