Heather Humphreys

Responses to the consultation will be considered by the new judicial planning working group headed by Brigid McManus, former secretary-general of the Department of Education and Skills.

The working group is examining the wider judicial resource needs within all courts over the next five years in line with commitments made by the government in the Justice Plan 2021 and its programme for government.

Five additional judges were recently appointed to the High Court, but the court’s president, Ms Justice Mary Irvine, has criticised that figure as too low and suggested that three to four times as many are needed.

“Ensuring that the courts are adequately resourced to administer justice efficiently and effectively for citizens in their access to justice is a priority for government,” justice minister Heather Humphreys said today.

“The recommendations of the judicial planning working group will play a key role in supporting the future delivery of this commitment and I look forward to receiving their report and recommendations next spring.

“To support the working group in carrying out this vital task, I am actively encouraging submissions from the general public on how many and what type of judges are needed to ensure that our courts are adequately resourced to provide efficient administration of justice.

“I would also like to hear people’s views on work practices, efficiencies and productivities in the Courts Service and how we can have a judicial system which is modern and responsive, as well as adequately resourced.”

The OECD is currently engaging with stakeholders on research to provide independent evidence that will further complement and inform the group’s work.

Responses to the consultation, which will run until Friday 12 November 2021, will be considered by the working group in compiling a report and making recommendations to the justice minister.

Submissions can be made by email to judicialplanning@justice.ie. More information is available from the government’s website.