Sir, - With reference to the interesting letter from Mr OGogain (May 30th) on the Family Law Courts and the in camera rule, I write on behalf of the Family Lawyers' Association in relation to the reporting of the Annual Conference on May 15th.
Both sides of the argument were put forward by a panel of distinguished speakers from different perspectives. There were also lively contributions from the floor. In a "straw" poll taken at the end of the debate by an informal show of hands, a majority of those present voted against a change in the present rule. The main concerns of those opposed to change appeared to be client privacy and fear of sensational reporting.
The headline of the article on the Conference therefore did not actually reflect this position as it stated that change was in fact called for. We are most pleased to see a debate commence on the matter and would hope that further views on the issue would be expressed in your columns. - Yours, etc.
Jennifer Curry, Honorary Secretary, Family Lawyers' Association, Distillery Building, Church Street, Dublin 7.