The bar Council greatly regrets the circumstances that have led to the resignation of Mr Justice Hugh O'Flaherty. He has taken a very honourable decision, at great personal loss to himself and to his family, friends and colleagues, and this will be widely acknowledged.
By his actions, Justice O'Flaherty has ensured the integrity of the bench on which he served with such distinction and public confidence in its administration.
The Irish legal system has suffered the huge loss of a compassionate and fair judge and an intelligent and respected member of the judiciary. During his 35 years as a barrister he was one of the undoubted leaders of the Bar. He contributed in a very significant way to the development of our criminal, civil and constitutional law.
As a judge, he demonstrated great courage, vision and independence of mind and the capacity to innovate and interpret the law in a fair and just manner.
The loss to the Irish judicial system cannot be overestimated.