Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2016
42. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of judicial vacancies that exist currently in each of the courts; the timescale envisaged to fill these vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29782/16]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that there are currently 5 judicial vacancies in the Courts, as follows:
|
Court |
Number of vacancies |
|
Supreme Court |
1 |
|
Court of Appeal |
0 |
|
High Court |
1* |
|
Circuit Court |
2 |
|
District Court |
1 |
*A Judge has been nominated by the Government to fill this vacancy and it is expected that her appointment will take place this month.
The 2016 Programme for Government commits to significant reforms in the judicial appointments process and my Department has been preparing the necessary measures. In respect of existing and future vacancies in the Courts, the requirements of the administration of justice will be the overriding priority for the Government over the period ahead as the necessary reforms are brought forward as expeditiously as is practicable.
