Final Tributes were paid to the retiring Chief Justice Mr Justice Liam Hamilton in a packed Supreme Court today. He formally retires at midnight tomorrow when he reaches the age of 72. The President of the High Court Mr Justice Fredrick Morris said that he had created a Court system appropriate to the country and times we live in.
Mr Justice Liam Hamilton worked his way from High Court clerk to the highest judicial office in the land. Born in Mitchelstown in County Cork, the Christian brothers boy has spent nearly 26 years on the bench. He was president of the High Court, Chaired the Beef Tribunal and in 1994 was appointed Chief Justice. He also had a brief flutter with labour politics in the late 60s.
Today in a Supreme Court packed with members of the judiciary and legal profession that career was recalled. On behalf of the Government Attorney General Michael McDowell thanked him for the many functions he had carried out during his career. Mr Justice Fredrick Morris noted his work in modernising the Supreme Court and said he leaves an enduring and positive legacy.
In a short speech of thanks, Mr Justice Hamilton included Mr Justice Hugh O'Flaherty and paid tribute to him for the support and help he had given. His commitment to maintaining the rule of law and the administration of justice was unequalled he said.
