Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD has today appealed for calm and for mediation in the on-going and escalating dispute between Minister Alan Shatter and the judiciary.
“The on-going dispute over recent days is unprecedented, worrying and reflects badly on Ireland internationally.
“I am appealing for calm and urgently calling for lines of communications to be established quickly and clearly.”
“A number of the grievances raised by the judges are legitimate and should be listened to. I am calling for an independent mediator to be appointed to examine these grievances.”
“It appears to me that a number of the issues raised are easily resolved if the will is there. For example on the issue of consultation over new legislation judges have the right, like any other citizen, to make submissions upon the publication of heads of bill by government. However their opinions and recommendations should be considered in the same light as those from any other citizen. No citizen has the right to have their submission elevated above those of anyone else.
“The independent appointment of judges has also been raised in recent days. Separation of powers between the judiciary and the executive must be upheld. Earlier this year I introduced legislation which seeks to end the system of political appointees, increasing transparency and accountability in judicial appointments.” ENDS