Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I was only starting, a Chathaoirligh. This area must be examined.

The retirement age is another issue. A judge can continue in office to the age of 70. What is international practice in this regard? While I have no difficulty with the retirement age, court opening hours should be examined. I am aware that a great deal of work is done outside court hours by barristers and judges, but the limited hours during which the High Court operates is a cause of concern, particularly when people travel long distances. They would benefit from longer sittings as it would shorten the necessity for their stay in Dublin.

The judicial council, to which the Minister referred in the Dáil, should be examined. Instances of people leaving the profession arose during the life of the last Seanad. Had proper procedures been in place, these could have been dealt with in a satisfactory manner without necessitating that. Minor offences can lead to people resigning or being impeached. There should be a halfway house, and a judicial council, incorporating a judicial conduct committee, could be important in that regard.

I believe the Minister excluded the possibility of reviewing judicial decisions, which I fully understand. The president of the relevant court probably deals with that. However, from my involvement in business, I know solicitors will seek to place public injury claim cases with judges who they consider to be more sympathetic than others. Consistency in judgments is required to avoid such things.

I look forward to the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse continuing its valuable work. This legislation will assist in that objective.