AAA-PBP TD Richard Boyd Barrett said the legal system was dominated by a "small, self perpetuating elite".

He said that it was largely controlled by the "honourable society of the Kings Inn", and was critical of the "secret society" called the Benchers who have influence on the decision over who is appointed a judge.

He said that some former members of Fine Gael have been appointed judges.

Mr Boyd Barrett told the Dáil that he finds it hard for people to talk about the separation of powers when judges have been appointed because of their connections to political parties.

He said that "we can impugn them and criticise decisions they make", and that poor people cannot access the same level of justice as people from wealthier backgrounds.

Mr Boyd Barrett said that he will support the bill because "the whole thing needs to be shaken up."