Appointing judges - Flawed system must be reformed

High on the list of qualities people expect of judges are fairness and balance in measuring out justice, a large dose of common sense in the verdicts they hand down, and a level playing field in their appointment.

But even the Chief Justice Ms Susan Denham openly admits the success of the administration of justice in Ireland has been achieved in spite of, rather than because of, the present appointments system. Ironically, judges themselves want that system changed.

It is a poor reflection on this country that in the 21st century every judge is still selected by ministers sitting around the Cabinet table. Undeniably, in many cases candidates are appointed to the bench on the basis of what political party they happen to support.