Judges in Ireland Claim Over €2.1 Million in Expenses

Judges in Ireland claimed more than €2.1 million in expenses during the year 2024, according to data released by the Courts Service. This figure encompasses a range of costs, including travel, subsistence, and incidental expenses, highlighting the financial implications of judicial operations in the country.

Of the total expenses, approximately €947,000 was allocated to travel and mileage, while €1.12 million was designated for subsistence, which covers accommodation and food for judges who frequently travel for work. An additional €34,754 was spent on incidental costs related to judicial attire, such as wigs and gowns.

Details of Expense Claims

The amounts claimed by judges varied significantly based on their court and geographic location. For instance, Supreme Court judges, who predominantly operate from Dublin, collectively claimed only €3,920 in expenses, with some judges reporting no claims at all. In stark contrast, six judges from the Circuit and District Courts each claimed over €30,000, primarily due to extensive travel associated with court assignments.

The highest expense claim was made by District Court Judge Gerald Furlong, who received €54,361. This amount included €19,421 for travel and mileage and €34,940 for subsistence. Other notable claims included District Court Judge Miriam Walsh at €41,372 and Circuit Court Judge James O’Donohoe at €39,170. A total of three other judges also exceeded the €30,000 mark in their claims.

The Courts Service noted that some expenses claimed in 2024 may relate to arrears from previous years, indicating a complex financial landscape for judicial expenses.

Variations in Expenses Across Courts

The distribution of expenses across different courts reveals significant disparities. Judges from the Court of Appeal claimed only €20,000, while expenses for High Court judges totaled just under €177,000. The Circuit Court expenses amounted to €714,000, and the District Court judges accounted for €1.18 million of the total claims.

A spokesperson for the Courts Service explained that transportation and accommodation costs are based on standard rates in accordance with civil service guidelines. “The level of costs also reflects where to and how often a judge has to travel in attending court dates and hearings,” the spokesperson stated. “Almost 98 percent of judicial expenses are incurred when judges attend courts away from their home location.”

An additional note emphasized the regional nature of the Circuit Court and the extensive reach of the District Court, which operates in numerous venues across the country. Travel and subsistence expenses incurred during tribunal sittings or inquiries are also recoupable from the relevant government department, further illustrating the financial complexities of judicial operations.

This comprehensive overview of judicial expenses sheds light on the significant costs associated with maintaining the judiciary in Ireland, reflecting both the necessity for judges to travel and the broader implications for public expenditure in the legal system.