In a notice issued yesterday, Mr Justice David Barniville set out a list of measures that High Court judges can take in the event of disruption or violence in the courtroom.

“Given the increasing incidents of these types of disruptive behaviour, it cannot be expected that the court will exercise the type of tolerance for such behaviour as may have been exercised up to now,” he said.

A similar notice is expected to be issued shortly by Court of Appeal president Ms Justice Caroline Costello.

Mr Justice Barniville said: “Disruptive conduct threatens the effective management of court business, the progress of cases and the safety and welfare of judges, registrars and other court officers, officials and staff, lawyers and litigants alike.

“The court has a duty to protect the integrity of proceedings and ensure the proper administration of justice and the safety of all those involved in the courts system.

“If public confidence in the administration of justice is to be maintained, it is paramount that the authority of the court is respected.”