Catherine Pierse

Catherine Pierse, the current director of public prosecutions, was joined by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, justice minister Jim O’Callaghan and guests at a commemorative event in Iveagh House yesterday.

Mr Martin told the event: “First and foremost, this evening is an opportunity to thank and commend Catherine and everyone who has worked in the Office of the DPP — both past and present — for the significant strides you have made in the development of an independent and transparent Office of Director of Public Prosecutions in our country.

“The mission of the Office of the DPP is to deliver a fair, independent and effective prosecution service on behalf of all the people of Ireland, a mission underpinned by your core values of integrity, excellence, respect and collegiality.

“It is clear that you live these values every day and are strongly motivated by the vital service you provide to the public and, in particular, to victims of crime.

“In a time when well established and once respected legal, societal and international norms seem under siege from many quarters, the principles and instincts represented by this office and the people who inhabit it could not be more valuable, or more important to pay tribute to.”

Mr O’Callaghan added: “For five decades, the Office of the DPP has ensured that criminal prosecutions are conducted independently, fairly, and in the public’s interest. The professionalism, skill and dedication of the Office has been instrumental in protecting the integrity of our justice system.

“I want to commend the Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms Catherine Pierse, and her team and their predecessors for their unwavering commitment to justice. Their work ensures that due process is respected and those who break the law are held accountable.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Ireland, I extend my gratitude and congratulations to the Office of the DPP on this significant milestone. I look forward to seeing the Office further strengthened to build on this success in the years ahead.”

A new book titled The History of the Office of the DPP: 1975-2025, written by legal history Dr Niamh Howlin of UCD Sutherland School of Law, has also been published to mark the occasion.

Mr Martin said: “It’s an insightful book. It is timely. It captures key events in the story of the Office since its foundation.

“The book shines a light on the Office’s many challenges, milestones and ultimately its place at the heart of Ireland’s criminal justice system. It represents a comprehensive overview of the evolution of the Office over its 50-year history.”