Critics of courts system and judges have duty to be fair, says chief justice

The State’s top judge said there is 'nothing inevitable' about a form of Government where checks and balances by the courts provides for the limitation of the legislative and executive powers

Mr Justice O’Donnell said the public is entitled to expect judges to make decisions 'without fear or favour, solely by reference to facts and law'.

The chief justice has warned of the dangers of basing criticisms of the courts system and judges on generalisations and isolated or extreme instances.

Mr Justice Donal O’Donnell said constructive criticism of the courts is “welcome”, but commentators have a duty to be fair and to recognise the limitations on available information.