Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

Otherwise, my ambition is to avoid appearing before judges. I have only twice appeared before a judge, one a German judge and the other an Irish judge, and I did so as a consular official.

Judges are well paid as a means of guaranteeing their independence. Over the years, a factor has been the money it is possible to earn at the bar. In the context of tribunals and in other contexts, this is a matter for discussion, albeit at another time.

I agree with Deputy Charles Flanagan that a great many judges would prefer if there was no exemption for them. A very real issue of fairness arises. It is difficult to disagree with most of the points that have been made. The review body indicated that if it had been open to it to make a recommendation, it would have recommended a reduction. It was not open to it constitutionally to make such a recommendation.

The Government stated it will not increase judges' pay during its lifetime. I accept this only addresses a small part of the point.

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