A major project aimed at simplifying and reducing the cost of land and conveyancing law has been announced by the Minsiter for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Mr McDowell.
The project, in conjunction with the Law Reform Commission, will include repealing over 100 pre-1922 laws, some dating back to the 13th century. Mr McDowell hopes to publish new legislation by August next year.
The changes have three principle aims, according to the minister:
- Simplify the law making it easier to understand and more user-friendly for professionals and the public
- Accommodate changing social, demographic and economic needs - new forms of property ownership
- Make the conveyancing of property easier and faster - reducing costs and delays
The process of implementing the reforms began at the start of the year with a review of the existing legislation. The Law Reform Commission is to publish a Consultation Paper in October outlining the scope of the intended reforms.
A major conference in November that will be addressed by international experts will consider the reform proposals as well as ongoing modernisation of the Land Registry and preparations for e-conveyancing.
The third phase will involve the drafting of legislation, with a view to publication as early as August 2005.