The death has been announced of the former chief justice and attorney general John Murray.
A native of Limerick, Mr Murray served twice as attorney general and 24 years as a judge. He served as a judge at the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg, and a Supreme Court judge.
In 2004, Mr Murray was appointed chief justice and served in this role until 2011.
In a statement, Minister for Justice Simon Harris paid tribute to Mr Murray, saying that he was a "most distinguished jurist".
"He was rightly proud of the institutions of our State, and took pride in his own service in one of its great institutions, the Supreme Court," the minister said.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin also paid tribute to Mr Murray, saying that he had "a great commitment to public service, democracy, and the rule of law".
Very saddened to hear of the passing of John Murray, distinguished former Chief Justice, Attorney General
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) January 18, 2023
and European Court of Justice judge.
He had a great commitment to public service, democracy, and the rule of law.
My sympathies to his wife Gabrielle, family and friends.
Kings Inns has said that Mr Murray was an "eminent barrister who rose to the highest judicial office in the State, Murray CJ was also an honorary bencher of King's Inns following his retirement, where he continued to support King’s Inns and our students".
Mr Murray, 79, is survived by wife Gabrielle, daughter Caitriona, son Brian and family.
