Chief Justice Donal O'Donnell

Ireland’s top judge was elected to the post late on Friday afternoon during a meeting of the network in The Hague.

The network brings together the presidents of the supreme courts of the 27 EU member states, along with associate members and observers.

They exchange experiences, strengthen cooperation, and provide perspectives to European institutions on issues affecting the judiciary.

It serves as a vital platform for dialogue on matters of common interest, including judicial independence and the rule of law.

Commenting on his election, Chief Justice O’Donnell said: “I am honoured to have been elected president of the Network of Presidents.

“The network provides an important forum for the exchange of views between supreme courts in the EU and a space for the collective representation of the views of national courts in dialogue with the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Court of Human Rights.

“This has never been more important than today when courts and the rule of law face challenges in Europe and beyond.

“Courts remain a cornerstone of constitutional democracy, and Ireland, as the largest common law jurisdiction remaining in the EU, brings a particular insight and a responsibility to ensure that voice continues to be heard.”

Justice, home affairs and migration minister Jim O’Callaghan added: “I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to Chief Justice Donal O’Donnell on his election as president of the Network of the Presidents of the Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union.

“His election is deserved recognition of his excellence as a judge. It also recognises the high esteem in which the Irish judiciary are held in Europe. 

“This network is an important platform for collaboration, information exchange and mutual assistance across the highest courts in Europe.

“With a wide breadth of experience and acknowledged expertise in constitutional law, Chief Justice O’Donnell brings a wealth of expertise to this role.

“In addition to serving as Ireland’s most senior member of the judiciary since 2021, he spent over a decade as a Supreme Court judge and his career as a practising barrister spanned almost 30 years. 

“Chief Justice O’Donnell has made a significant contribution to the Irish legal system throughout his career, and I wish him every success as he takes on this pivotal leadership position.”