Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I wish to revert to the point raised by Deputy Kenny in the context of public sector pay with particular reference to judicial pay and conditions, and the matter of the Constitution. I accept what the Taoiseach has said about the independence of the Judiciary being the bulwark of our democracy. However, matters must be advanced. It is important that there be a functioning relationship between the Executive - and indeed this Legislature - and the Judiciary. The long-promised legislation that may assist, the judicial council Bill, is not mentioned in the programme for Government. What is the position on the long-promised legislation setting up a judicial council having regard to the fact that, on 23 May last year, the Tánaiste when deputising for the Taoiseach indicated the legislation would be before the House before the end of 2008? I ask that the matter be progressed as there is concern at the need for such a judicial council to deal with a number of issues, which may well deal with the type of issue raised by Deputy Kenny.

See this speech in context