Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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449. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality her views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the judicial council Bill and the infringement of children's rights in the courts system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11336/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware from replies to previous PQs that the Programme for Government undertakes to “legislate to establish a Judicial Council, with lay representation, to provide an effective mechanism for dealing with complaints against judges". This commitment is being pursued by way of the proposed Judicial Council Bill which will provide for the establishment of a Judicial Council and Board of that Council to promote excellence and high standards of conduct by judges. In addition, the proposed Bill will provide for the establishment of a Judicial Conduct Committee, the membership of which will include lay persons, to facilitate investigation of allegations of judicial misconduct.

Work on the drafting of the Bill continues in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General and it is envisaged that it will be published during this Parliamentary session.

The Judiciary is independent in the exercise of its functions and it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the conduct or outcome of a matter which comes before the courts.