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Dáil committee to probe Smith remarks on judge

The Dáil Committee on Procedure is to investigate remarks made by People Before Profit TD Bríd Smith (pictured) about a High Court judge last month.

Deputy Smith’s remarks were aimed at Mr Justice Garrett Simons, and followed his ruling that a sectoral employment order covering electricians, made by former business minister Heather Humphreys, was unconstitutional.

Complained

She called the judgment a "declaration of war" on workers' protections.

The former minister for justice Charlie Flanagan complained to the Ceann Comhairle, who referred the matter to the committee. It yesterday (9 July) agreed to investigate the issue and will ask Deputy Smith for a written submission.

Deputy Smith’s comments were strongly criticised by the legal profession, with Law Society President Michele O’Boyle describing them as “shocking, unwarranted and dangerous”.