asked the Minister for Justice if the Government has before it any proposals to reform the current procedure for the appointment of members of the judiciary; and if he has any observations to make on this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Judicial Appointments.
67.
The answer is no.
There is serious disquiet in relation to what seems to be a political basis for the appointment of members of the judiciary. Would the Minister agree to set up an all-party committee to examine the position with a view to bringing about a more effective system of appointment? Would the Minister agree that there are grounds for grave public disquiet?
No. The system has been in operation here for 50 years.
I should be loath to suggest that the Minister's mind is as closed as that which has operated for the past 50 years in this connection——
The Deputy does not know that.
Has the Deputy a suggestion to make to the Minister?
Has Deputy Desmond been in touch with the judiciary in this matter?
Question Time is not a time for discussion across the floor of the House. Questions should be addressed to the Minister.
Hear, hear.
In order to ensure public regard for the judiciary and that its integrity is maintained and respected in the community would the Minister please look into this matter of the appointment of members of the judiciary?
Public regard for the judiciary is high. Only people such as the Deputy would seek to lower it.
68.
asked the Minister for Justice if the Government has as yet reached a decision on the recommendation of his predecessor that solicitors might be appointed judges of the circuit court with right of audience in the Superior Court.
It is not proposed to amend the law to provide that solicitors may be appointed judges of the circuit court. However, it is proposed in the forthcoming Courts Bill to provide that solicitors will have a right of audience in every court in the State.