Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 4

Written Answers. - Judicial Appointments.

Michael Bell

Question:

131 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the criteria he uses for the appointment of (a) district justices, (b) Circuit Court judges and (c) judges of the High Court and Supreme Court; if he will further outline (1) the qualifications which are required in each case and (2) the special training, if any, which is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke)

In accordance with Articles 13.9 and 35.1 of the Constitution judicial appointments are made by the President acting on the advice of the Government. The requirements for appointment to the judiciary are prescribed by section 5, section 17, as amended by section 2 (2) of the Courts Act, 1973, and section 29 of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act, 1961.