A chara, – Séan P Ó Briain (Letters, January 4th) writes to suggest that the working day of counsel and court is contained to the sitting times of 10.30am to 4pm.
He can be assured that the day for both counsel and court begins long before 10.30am and indeed before 9am, and continues long past 4pm, as counsel undertake research, client consultations, negotiation, and preparation for court, in addition to practise administration – all which have the aim of making cases run more smoothly and efficiently. Indeed, a standard 4pm finish to the day is unheard of. Similarly, judges and all the court support staff are working pre- and post- sitting times, progressing multiple cases over the course of a day through research, judgment writing, court administration, etc.
The backlog in court lists is in some part due to Covid closures but also due to increasing demand over the years as our population increases and cases become more complex and lengthy. That work continues to be dealt with through the appointment of additional judges, use of technology and reforms of court procedures. Additional courtrooms and facilities – not least the long-awaited Family Courts complex – would also greatly assist in progressing cases through to a timely completion. – Is mise,
SARA PHELAN, SC
Chair of the Council
of the Bar of Ireland,
Dublin 7.