(1) This section applies where a case is referred to the Circuit Court under section 77(3); and any reference in subsections (2) to (5) of this section to the proceedings is a reference to the proceedings on the reference.

(2) The jurisdiction of the Circuit Court shall be exercised by the judge for the time being assigned to the circuit where the respondent resides or ordinarily carries on any profession, business or occupation.

(3) With the substitution of a reference to the Circuit Court for the reference to the Director, section 79(3) shall apply in relation to a reference to the Circuit Court as it applies in relation to a reference to the Director.

(4) If requested to do so by the Circuit Court, the Director shall nominate an equality officer to investigate, and prepare a report on, any question specified by the Circuit Court and arising on the reference (including, in particular, any question whether persons are employed to do like work).

(5) Where a report is prepared for the Circuit Court under subsection (4), then, subject to any directions of the Circuit Court -