Judges to join High Court

The Government has decided to increase the number of High Court judges from 22 to 24 in order to ensure there is no growth in the backlog of cases. A Courts Bill will be introduced in the Dail next week to give effect to the decision and the legislation is expected to be given priority. Two High Court judges are presently presiding over judicial tribunals and a third is chairing a nursing commission. It is understood that at least three others are unavailable because of illness.