Chief Justice is socially liberal and racing enthusiast

The first of his family to enter third-level education, the socially liberal Frank Clarke is set to become the country’s next chief justice.

Judge Clarke was nominated by the Cabinet yesterday during its last meeting before the summer recess.

The Supreme Court judge, who is seen in legal circles as a progressive figure, has strong Fine Gael links, having joined the party after finishing school in Drimnagh Castle CBS.