Legal Affairs

Retaining juries in defamation cases ‘a victory for democracy’

Retired High Court judge Bernard Barton welcomes findings of Oireachtas report into proposed legislation

Bernard Barton: ‘It means the people will continue to be involved in administration of justice and that’s the most important thing.’ Picture: Collins

A Oireachtas committee recommendation to retain juries in defamation actions has been welcomed by a retired High Court judge as a “a victory for democracy”.

The cross-party Oireachtas Justice Committee, which scrutinised proposed legislation on defamation reform, said in a report published this week that juries should be retained in order to make findings of fact and an indicative assessment of damages.

But, it said a judge should be the final arbiter of the level ...