A bill which would pave the way for cuts in judges’ pay has passed all stages in the Dáil without a vote.
Fine Gael TD Dara Murphy said the 29th Amendment of the Constitution (Judges' Remuneration) Bill was fair, so long as judges were not singled out or discriminated against in any way.
His party colleague Jerry Buttimer said all taxpayers should be treated equally.
Deputy Buttimer said it was important that the independence of the judiciary be maintained but that no sector should enjoy special shelter.
Minister for Justice Alan Shatter welcomed the support for the bill from all sides of the House.
Mr Shatter said he was not aware of any member of the judiciary who has volunteered to opt into the salary reduction that has affected everyone else across the public service.
He said the reductions for judges were on a percentage basis which ensures they will be in line with reductions elsewhere in the public sector.
The minister said suggestions that a committee be set up to decide on the level of pay for the judiciary were erroneous, as this would be to single out judges for different treatment.
Mr Shatter said he was conscious of the need to continue to protect the independence of the judiciary.
