Sir Declan was called to the Bar in 1976 and was appointed as Lord Chief Justice in July 2009. He held office until his retirement in August 2021. He was also chairman of the Northern Ireland Judicial Appointments Commission until his retirement as Lord Chief Justice.

Sir Declan was joined by family, friends and former colleagues at the Inn of Court for the unveiling, which was the first time he saw the final portrait.

The portrait was painted by Gareth Reid and was the first occasion that he had painted a Lord Chief Justice retiral portrait in the jurisdiction. Mr Reid hails from Belfast, having studied at the University of Ulster, Glasgow School of Art and Florence Academy of Art.

Speaking at the event Moira Smyth KC, chair of the Bar Council, said: “The portrait is a fitting tribute to Sir Declan’s distinguished legal career and his immense contribution to the justice system in Northern Ireland. We are pleased to share this important moment with Sir Declan and his family.”