Austin Deasy
Question:38 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice whether there is a training programme for newly appointed judges of the District Court to ensure familiarity with the law and a uniform level of application of the law.
Written Answers. - District Court Judges.
Eric J. Byrne
Question:72 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the views of the Incorporated Law Society in the Law Society Gazette which suggested that the system of appointing judges in this country was flawed; if he has any plans to review the system for appointing judges, especially with a view to ensuring that appointees are properly prepared and trained; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 72 together.
I am aware of the views published in the Law Society Gazette regarding the appointment and training of judges.
Judicial appointments are made by the President on the advice of the Government and I have no plans to review the method of appointment.
With regard to preparation and training, it must be emphasised that our system of appointment to all levels of the judiciary is based on the concept of bringing in trained and experienced legal practitioners. The formal qualification required for appointment as judge of the District Court is not less than ten years' practice as a barrister or solicitor; ten years' practice as a barrister is required for appointment as a judge of the Circuit Court; and 12 years' practice as a barrister is the requirement for appointment as a judge of the Supreme and High Courts. To become a barrister or solicitor in the first place requires successful completion of a course of studies laid down by qualifying authorities. It is considered, therefore, that judges would on their appointment have a wide knowledge of the law, its application and court procedures.
I should also point out that statutory meetings of the judges of the District Court are held up to twice annually under the provisions of section 36 (3) of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act, 1961, for the purpose of discussing matters relating to the discharge of business of that court including such matters as "the avoidance of undue divergences in the exercise by the Judges of the jurisdiction of that Court and the general level of fines and other penalties".