The function of the Courts Service board is to consider and determine policy in relation to the Service, and oversee the implementation of that policy by its chief executive officer.

The position of chairperson is usually held by the Chief Justice, but will instead be held by Ms Justice Dunne, a Supreme Court judge, according to the Law Society Gazette.

A spokesperson for the Courts Service said Chief Justice Donal O’Donnell made the decision as he “wishes to dedicate more time” to the establishment of the new Judicial Appointments Commission.