Government moves to dismiss Curtin

The Government proposed a motion today calling for Judge Brian Curtin to be removed from office.

The unprecedented move paves the way for Judge Curtin’s removal if he is found to have subscribed to and accessed websites containing child pornographic images.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell described the allegations as extremely serious He said every member of the judiciary had a duty to uphold the constitution and the law.

The Minister said in August 2001 An Garda Síochána was informed by Interpol that information had been obtained in Texas indicating that individuals with Irish addresses had downloaded and accessed illegal images.

“One of those was a Brian Curtin with an address at 24 Ard na Lí, Tralee, Co Kerry,” he said.

After investigating the claims, gardaí applied for a warrant to search the judge’s home. During that search a personal computer and other documents were confiscated.

“The offence in question is very serious and carries a maximum term of five years in prison,” he said.