Stepping out for some air with Judge Kelly

Judge Cyril Kelly was at his Sandymount, Dublin, home with his family yesterday as speculation increased on his future on the bench, following the delivery of the Chief Justice's report on the affair.

Mr Justice Kelly appeared relaxed and in good spirits but was saying nothing as to his future plans. He returned from a short visit to the shops in nearby Bath Avenue at lunchtime. When The Irish Times called a few minutes later, half expecting the family dog which was audible in the background to be pressed into service, Mr Justice Kelly opened the door himself, looking businesslike in a blue pinstripe suit.

With introductions effected and making sure that the family dog was (thankfully) being restrained, he stepped forward, his face breaking into a disarming smile. Was there anything, we asked, that we might do to facilitate him, statement-wise, that is, if he wanted to unburden himself in any way . . ?

The smile became wider.

"You are very kind," he said. "No, I haven't said anything yet and I'm not saying anything."

Would he be prepared to indicate whether or not a statement was imminent? Or that one would be made in the course of the day?

Mr Justice Kelly said that he wasn't prepared to indicate whether or not any sort of statement would be made at any stage, adding: "I'm just spending time with my family at the moment."

Before The Irish Times had left the street, however, he emerged from his house, remarking that he was going to get some fresh air.