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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Feb 1996

Vol. 461 No. 1

Written Answers - Appointment of Judges.

Dermot Ahern

Question:

175 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice the number of new judges that have been appointed since the passing of the recent Courts and Court Officers Act, 1995; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2342/96]

Mr. Justice Egan retired from the Supreme Court in early December 1995. The Hon. Mr. Justice Donal Barrington was appointed Judge of the Supreme Court to replace him and this appointment procedure was finalised on 12 January 1996.

The Courts and Court Officers Act, 1995, came into operation on 15 December 1995. It increases the maximum number of judges who may be appointed to the courts. On 30 January 1996 I obtained Government approval for the appointment of 15 additional judges, that is, three to the Supreme Court; two to the High Court; seven to the Circuit Court and three to the District Court. These appointments will be made as soon as possible. I have written to the Chief Justice requesting that the Judicial Appointments Board should recommend to me, as soon as possible, a list of suitable candidates for the appointment to the various courts in accordance with the provisions of the Courts and Court Officers Act, 1995.
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