asked the Minister for Justice whether his attention had been drawn to a speech delivered from the Bench by District Justice Walsh at Letterkenny recently; and if he will state what steps he proposes to take in this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - District Justice's Statement.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I do not propose to take any steps in the matter.
Will the Minister say whether this speech was not tending to incite the people of that part of the country to commit illegal acts; and does he consider that it is right that a man in his position should make those speeches from the Bench which are read by the majority of the people as speeches inciting persons to do unlawful acts?
I am not going to discuss with the Deputy the merits or demerits of that particular matter. The people who originated this might also be accused of starting an incitement. My position in the matter is that as the law stands, I can take no disciplinary action against District Justices short of moving for their dismissal.
I think it is only right that the Minister should take cognisance in some form or other of this. Am I right in saying that this man would be the judge of any action which might take place in that area as a result of his speech? Does the Minister think that it is a right thing for a District Justice to make such a speech?
I stated clearly to the Deputy that, as the law stands, I have no power to take any disciplinary action with regard to District Justices short of moving for their dismissal. If the Deputy wants that, that is another matter.
I am not here to ask for dismissal.
That is the legal position.
I am here to ask to have a stop put to this sort of thing.