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Aug 12, 2023

‘Highly sprung’ chair, non

The Four Courts in Dublin “HIGHLY sprung” chairs, a window that was almost

The Four Courts in Dublin

"HIGHLY sprung" chairs, a window that was almost impossible to close, and a large rectangular shape in a different colour paint were among the problems highlighted by judges about their chambers in the past year.

The office of one circuit court judge wrote in to ask for an ergonomic chair saying the current one was no longer fit for purpose.

In an email, Judge John Martin's judicial assistant said: "The one that is currently there is not suitable and is causing him difficulty when sitting for prolonged periods."

Uncomfortable chairs were also an issue for Judge Brian Cregan as he returned to the courts after several years as head of the IBRC commission of investigation.

"The judge has a table and chairs in his chambers at … Gandon Building," said an email, "the judge has said the chairs are highly sprung to the point that [redacted] when writing judgments.

"Could this be looked into for the judge before his return to the High Court."

The President of the High Court David Barniville was also having issues with his chambers, according to records released under FOI by the Courts Service.

An email said: "The President has informed me that the top part of his window is difficult to close and was wondering if someone could have a look at it.

"He also wishes to have some more pictures hung up on the walls if possible."

The office of Judge Senan Allen of the Court of Appeal asked for a repaint of his chambers because of clashing colours when an item was taken from the wall.

An internal email said: "They recently removed a whiteboard from the wall that was painted around the last time. Now there is a large rectangular shape of a different colour to the rest of the room.

"You did mention the last time I was speaking to you that it hasn't been five years since you guys painted it. However, would it be possible to have it painted and it can come out of our budget?"

After returning to the High Court, Judge Brian Cregan also found a plethora of issues with his chambers.

In an email seeking assistance, he explained how the fridge wasn't working, nor were the lights in his kitchen and bathroom.

A similarly wide range of issues were reported at the Drug Treatment Court, a special court that deals with low-level offenders with problem drug use.

An email said: "Can I please ask for the judges chambers in Green Street to be restocked with some delft, glasses, cutlery as it has slowly depleted.

"Also, the microwave does not work anymore so that will need to be replaced. The judge has also asked if the filtered water cooler will be returned to the kitchen?"

Problems with the toilet were also reported with no toilet roll dispenser or soap dispenser – "just passing that message on," said an email.

A spokesman said: "The Courts Service remains in regular contact with staff and the judiciary around the country about providing work spaces and improving the facilities we all need and use.

"We are pleased we were able to accommodate the reasonable number and the reasonable nature of the requests for changed facilities for judges or staff who were newly appointed, moved, or promoted, or who needed to change office during the past year."