Co Kerry judge hosted court sittings in his own home

At least four special District Court sittings took place at the home of Judge James O’Connor over the period, which the Courts Service of Ireland has said is “not uncommon”.

At least one of the cases heard was a custody case concerning a man arrested on New Year’s Day. He was due to appear before Killarney District Court on Tuesday, but all of the around 60 matters were adjourned until 16 January because Judge O’Connor was ill.

A special sitting to hear the custody case was then arranged later that day at Judge O’Connor’s private residence near Glenbeigh.

Each of the special sittings has taken place in a box room attended by the court clerk, gardaí, defence solicitors and accused.