Finian McGrath
Question:574. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will respond to a query from a person (details supplied) regarding the proposed judicial council Bill. [32076/13]
View answerTuesday, 2 July 2013
Questions (574)
Written answers
I am happy to be able to inform the Deputy that this personal inquiry has been responded to directly through my Private Office. The reply reiterated the Programme for Government commitment to “legislate to establish a Judicial Council, with lay representation, to provide an effective mechanism for dealing with complaints against judges” and that this commitment is being given expression in the form of the proposed Judicial Council Bill. As well as providing for the establishment of a Judicial Council and Board that will promote excellence and high standards of conduct by judges, the proposed Bill is aimed at providing a means of investigating allegations of judicial misconduct supported by the establishment of a Judicial Conduct Committee which will have lay representation. Having considered the Bill in light of the considered views of the judiciary and in relation to current Government policy, I am happy to confirm that work on the drafting of the new Bill continues in conjunction with the Offices of the Attorney General and of Parliamentary Counsel. Under the Government's Legislation Programme publication of the Bill is expected later this year.