We should consider part-time judges

Like anyone who represents a party or parties before our courts, I read with concern the comments by the President of the High Court about a shortage of judges.

Perhaps one way to address this matter would be to amend our Constitution to permit the appointment of part-time or deputy judges? One perceived difficulty with the present system is that once a judge is appointed if he or she demonstrates a lack of judicial ability, it is very hard to do very much about it, save for impeachment.

Appointing a deputy would address any judicial shortages as well as allow the Judicial Appointments Board take into account the aptitude and experience of a deputy judge when considering her/him for a full-time appointment. It might also make the proposed amendment on blasphemy more relevant to voters if another constitutional amendment was proposed along with it.

Johnnie McCoy B.L.

Law Library

Four Courts

Dublin 7