Chief Justice Donal O’Donnell has warned of growing international threats to the rule of law and stressed the importance of strengthening safeguards for judicial independence in Ireland.
Speaking at the Opening of the Legal Year on 5 October 2026, the Chief Justice said that developments affecting the International Criminal Court formed part of a wider pattern of “rule of law backsliding”. He warned that it would be “very foolish” to assume Ireland was immune from forces threatening the rule of law internationally.
The Chief Justice said that civil society, NGOs, the legal professions, civil servants and judges all have a role in reinforcing Ireland’s constitutional and legal protections. He also highlighted judicial appointments, security of tenure, remuneration, court security and court resources as areas relevant to the resilience of the justice system.
Addressing the ongoing dispute between solicitors on the criminal legal aid panel and the Department of Justice, the Chief Justice said its continuation was a matter of concern to him and, he believed, judges generally. While noting that aspects of the dispute are before the courts, including the Supreme Court, he expressed hope that it could be brought to a conclusion soon.