The Irish Courts Podcast

Every day, headlines and social media feeds carry stories from our courts. However, court reporting is more than news, it’s a constitutional imperative and a cornerstone of transparency in Irish justice. In this episode, we explore why reporting the law matters, how it has evolved, and why it remains vital for democracy. Join Professor Rachael Walsh - School of Law, Trinity College Dublin, Mary Carolan - Legal Affairs Correspondent, The Irish Times, Dave O’Connell - Editor, Connacht Tribune, and Dr. Carol Coulter - Director of the Child Law Project as they unpack the constitutional foundations, ethical challenges, and the realities of reporting in a digital age. From contempt rulings and in camera restrictions to the rise of social media and the enduring appetite for true crime, this is the story of how court reporting shapes public trust in justice.

Join Ms. Justice Eileen Roberts of the High Court, Dr Brian Barry, Associate Professor, School of Law, Trinity College Dublin and Karlin Lillington, Irish Times Technology Journalist as they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the legal landscape; from courtroom transcription and legal research to sentencing algorithms and deep fakes. This episode examines the promise and peril of AI in Irish courts, asking whether technology can truly support justice without compromising fairness, dignity, or judicial independence. We unpack the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI in the courtroom. This is the story of innovation, caution, and the enduring need for human judgment.

In this episode of The Irish Courts Podcast, we explore Habeas Corpus, a legal remedy that protects the right to liberty in Ireland. Hear from Dr. Bláthna Ruane SC, Mr. Justice Gerard Hogan, and Associate Professor Dr. Kevin Costello as they trace the development of Habeas Corpus through Irish legal history. From its early use in the 17th century to its role in the Constitution today, this episode looks at how the remedy continues to serve citizens and uphold the rule of law.

Join Professor Niamh Howlin, Patrick Gageby SC, and Ms. Justice Caroline Biggs as they trace the evolution of jury trials, from packed juries and exclusionary laws to landmark cases that opened the courtroom to women and broadened public participation. We’ll uncover how the jury system acts as a safeguard against State overreach, and how its transformation reflects Ireland’s changing values, from colonial legacies to constitutional rights. This is the story of fairness, representation, and the power of ordinary citizens to deliver justice.

In this episode, we’re exploring the David Norris case—a pivotal legal battle that challenged the constitutionality of laws criminalising male homosexuality. Join author Colm Tóibín, former President Mary McAleese, and David Norris himself as they recount the struggle to overturn laws dating back to the British Empire. In this episode, we’ll unpack the personal and legal journey of David Norris, who fought against outdated and unjust legislation in the courts, and changed the hearts and minds of a nation.  This is the story of courage, visibility, and the fight for equality in a society where love, until then, was criminalised.

Today we delve into the intriguing and controversial Julia Clarke case - a story that challenges our perceptions of justice and morality in 1930s Ireland. Imagine a summer evening in Dundalk, where a young couple’s innocent kiss leads to an unexpected turn of events. Join Niamh Howlin (Associate Professor at the UCD Sutherland School of Law) and Mary McAuliffe (historian, lecturer, and Director of Gender Studies at University College Dublin) as we unpack the legal intricacies and social context surrounding this remarkable case, shedding light on a different era and its enduring impact on contemporary Ireland.

Dive into the pivotal District Court cases of Healy v. Donoghue and DPP V Gary Doyle, which transformed the landscape of legal representation in Ireland. Featuring The Hon. Mr. Justice Frank Clarke, retired Chief Justice and The Hon. Mr. Justice John MacMenamin, retired Judge of the Supreme Court, The Hon. Ms. Justice Aileen Donnelly; Supreme Court Judge and James Dwyer SC, discover how these seemingly small cases established crucial rights for defendants and set the stage for modern justice practices. 

Join us as we delve into the life of Eileen Kennedy, whose groundbreaking appointment in 1964 marked a turning point in Ireland's legal history. Learn about her pivotal role in reforming the treatment of vulnerable children and her lasting impact on the judicial landscape through a rich and storied retelling with Dr Eoin O’Sullivan School of Social Work and Social Policy, Pól Ó’Murchú: Solicitor, Judge Patricia Cronin; District Court Judge and Maura O'Looney retired Probation Officer.

What does it mean to have a judicial system of your own? In this episode, Chief Justice Dónal O’Donnell and The Hon. Mr Justice Gerard Hogan; Supreme Court Judge, examine the sweeping reforms of the 1924 court system, highlighting its significance in fostering a fair and independent Ireland. Tune in to celebrate the radical spirit that shaped the nation's legal landscape!

This Podcast series has been created to commemorate the Decade of Centenaries. The series will delve into landmark cases, influential figures, and the evolution of our legal system, featuring insightful discussions with prominent judges, legal scholars, and historians. Each episode aims to illuminate our legal heritage and its impact on modern society.