Reductions in judges’ pay not yet ruled out

THE Department of Finance has insisted it has not yet ruled out an attempt to cut judges’ pay.

The department’s position would seem at odds with that of Taoiseach Brian Cowen, who indicated last week that the Government would leave judicial salaries untouched because of the constitutional difficulties involved.

Article 35.5 of the Constitution states: “The remuneration of a judge shall not be reduced during his continuance in office.”