Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

William Murphy via Flickr
Dolphin House

Barristers say violent attack on judge in courtroom was 'deplorable'

The Bar of Ireland said appropriate measures need to be put in place to protect people in court.

BARRISTERS HAVE CONDEMNED an attack on a district court judge yesterday afternoon as an affront to justice.

Judge Miriam Walsh was assaulted by a man while hearing a domestic violence case at Dolphin House court in Temple Bar. She was taken to hospital but has since been released. A man was arrested at the scene and appeared in court this morning in relation to the incident.

Reacting to the news, chairman of the council of the Bar of Ireland, David Barniville, said the attack on the judge during the course of her work is “deplorable”.

Judges are impartial decision makers whose work is driven by the pursuit of justice, for all members of society. The physical attack on Judge Walsh today is an affront to justice. It is a new low, and one that I hope will never be repeated.

Barniville added that the incident highlights the importance of appropriate facilities and security in the courts.

“There must be a thorough investigation into the circumstances under which Judge Walsh could be attacked in this deplorable way. It is important the appropriate measures and facilities are afforded to the justice system, for the protection of both the judiciary and legal professionals, as well as members of the public attending the court.”

Read: Judge attacked and injured while hearing case in family court>