Appointment to the Supreme Court

At its meeting yesterday, the government agreed to nominate the Hon. Mr. Justice Brian Murray for appointment by the President of Ireland as an Ordinary Judge of the Supreme Court.

The vacancy arose following the retirement of the Hon. Mr. Justice Liam McKechnie on 19 April 2021.

The government has taken the necessary steps to formally advise President Higgins of the nomination in accordance with constitutional practice.

In accordance with articles 13.9 and 35.1 of the Constitution, judicial appointments are made by the President acting on the advice of the government.

Section 17 of the Court and Court Officers Act 1995 provides that where Government proposes to advise the President to appoint a serving Judge, the provisions of section 16 do not apply (that is, the submission of names of suitable candidates by JAAB).

Limited biographical details

Hon. Mr. Justice Brian Murray

Educated at: University College Dublin, University of Cambridge and the King’s Inns

Called to the Bar: 1989

Appointed Senior Counsel: 2002

Appointed to the Court of Appeal: 4 November 2019