Court tributes to retiring judge

TRIBUTES have been paid to a retiring Circuit Court Judge who sat in Sligo for civil and family law cases.

Michael Monahan as president of Sligo Solicitors Association led the tributes last Thursday morning to Sligo born Judge Doirbhle Flanagan who praised her ability to clear the Court lists and her professional approach to her job.

Retired State Solicitor, Mr Hugh Sheridan spoke on behalf of the State in the absence of the current State Solicitor and complimented Judge Flanagan on the running of her Court and wished her well in her retirement.

Ms Michele O’Boyle, solicitor on behalf of the Family law practitioners and, as the Law Society Representative said Judge Flanagan, who was appointed in November 2004, had stamped her mark from her very first sitting as an outstanding member of the judiciary.

“You have always executed your office without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

“Your decisions have been blind to prejudice, have been impartial, fair, objective and balanced.

“You have enriched for the greater good the shape of our practices and the legal profession.

“We are a diverse, dynamic, confident profession ready to meet the challenges capably, however, your tenacious attention to detail has challenged us to become better lawyers and for that we are grateful.

“It has ensured that the volumes of cases that have come before you have been litigated applying the highest possible standards.

“Your distinguished, respected, presence in this Court will be sorely missed, and I know that I speak for all of my colleagues when I say that you leave a very positive, indelible mark in this court,” said Ms O’Boyle.

David Gilvarry BL paid tribute to her on behalf of the Midland Circuit Bar and stated that she would be missed.

On behalf of the Courts Office, Triona Hever thanked Judge Flanagan for her courtesy and co-operation.

Judge Doirbhle Flanagan thanked everyone for their kind remarks.

She stated that when she was appointed as a Judge she was not assigned to any Circuit but six years ago when she was assigned to Sligo she was delighted to get the opportunity to work here.

She said that she has enjoyed her time in Sligo and that the legal practitioners were always very supportive and respectful of her.

At the conclusion of the tributes, on behalf of Sligo Solicitors’ Association, Mr Monahan made a presentation to Judge Flanagan of a print of Sligo Courthouse.