Dr. Laura Cahillane:

I will not discuss sentencing. Mr. Justice Gary Hickinbottom, a UK High Court judge, has written a very good essay on the qualities needed to be a judge and what judging involves. It concentrates on the ability to understand and deal fairly, communicate with parties at the their level, whatever that may be, and discuss openly and explain matters to parties in court. This is a very important part of a judge's job. As members can see in my submission, this is taken into account in England and Wales when candidates are assessed, but not here. My colleagues have mentioned that when we consider eligibility criteria, perhaps we need to be more measured and draw up a specific list, as in England in Wales.