Welcome for State Solicitor

THERE was a warm welcome for Sligo’s new State Solicitor, Ms Elisa McHugh at the recent sitting of the Circuit Court.

Ms McHugh was introduced to the court by Ms Dara Foynes BL who said Ms McHugh had previously worked in the office of the DPP and their loss was very much Sligo’s gain.

Ms Foynes said Ms McHugh came to her role in Sligo with impeccable credentials.

She had spent ten years in the Chief State Solicitor’s office and was in the Directing Division of the DPP’s office working on some complex cases before taking up her position in Sligo.

Ms Foynes also stated that Ms McHugh had worked on the Ryan Commission which was set up to Inquire into institutional child abuse.

Ms McHugh also worked as a solicitor for the Crown at the Old Bailey in London. added Ms Foynes.

Dublin native Ms McHugh is married to a Sligo man. Judge Keenan Johnson said he would echo the comments made by Ms Foynes and said Ms McHugh came to the job with incredible integrity.

“She has enormous experience and this will be of huge benefit in undertaking what is a difficult job as State Solicitor,” he said.

The Judge added that Ms McHugh would be a huge asset to the legal fraternity in Sligo.

On behalf of the Courts Services, Ms Loretta Kearins wished Ms McHugh all the best in her new role and assured her of the co-operation and assistance of the office.

Ms McHugh took up her position on February 1st last and succeeded Mr Hugh Sheridan who has retired.

Mr Sheridan was appointed as State Solicitor in 1998 and had succeeded Mr Tom Tighe, a native of Ballymote.