Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

Having mentioned Special Criminal Courts and non-jury courts, it is timely to remind the House of the fundamental role played by juries and jurors in the criminal justice system.

Is the Minister concerned at the large numbers of professionals who are excluded from jury service and are thereby disconnected from the administration of justice? For example, why are vets, airline pilots, nurses and dentists excluded from jury service? Does the Minister believe juries are therefore representative of the community? Perhaps it is time we considered reforming the jury system to ensure juries both reflect and represent society as a whole.

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