Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In the programme for Government, there are some very significant commitments on change in the area of judicial appointments. I will be bringing proposals to Government for a general scheme of a judicial appointments Bill as soon as I am in a position to. The new judicial appointments commission is an important element of the policy framework agreement between our parties. The commitment in the new programme for Government will be reflected in the provisions of the general scheme, including the composition and chairing of the new authority.

There was a public consultation process held on this issue. Consultations indicate it is important to ensure the Judiciary retains the independence that is critical for the discharge of its constitutional function; that it reflects, as far as possible, the diverse nature of the society from which it is drawn; that it enjoys the confidence and trust of society; and that the Judiciary is appointed on merit. There are approximately eight vacancies across the courts at present which the Government will be considering in due course.

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