Judiciary 'not immune to economic crisis'
Ireland's judiciary is not against the idea of taking a financial hit during the economic crisis which has shaken families throughout the country, the top judge said.
The new Chief Justice also maintained that judges had never opposed a referendum on their pay.
The Hon Mrs Justice Susan Denham said members are aware of the current crisis as the effects of the financial storm come before the courts every day.
"A trail of tragedy, fraught families, separating spouses, lost jobs, homes under siege, serious financial woes, companies being wound up, and stories of millions and billions of euros lost in the ether," she said.
"In these areas, as in all others, it is critically important that judges administer justice and give an independent decision.
"Judges are not immune from the effects of the economic crisis.
"Judges are not, nor have they ever been, opposed to playing their part in sharing the financial pain required of everyone in this difficult time.
"In particular, the judiciary has never opposed, and does not oppose, a referendum."
The Chief Justice earns €295,916 a year, with a Supreme Court judge paid €257,872 .
But their wages were protected by the constitution when public servants were forced to pay a controversial pension levy. The majority of judges later bowed to public pressure and voluntarily paid Revenue directly.
The Government is planning a referendum later this year to allow it to reduce the pay of serving judges.
Mrs Justice Denham was appointed by President Mary McAleese during a short ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin. Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Justice Minister Alan Shatter and Attorney General Maire Whelan attended.
The Chief Justice said it was important the branches of Government retain their integrity and strength and work together for the benefit of Ireland during the financial crisis.
She called for the development of a Judicial Council in Ireland and a Court of Appeal to deal with the growing number of complex cases coming before the Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeal.
Elsewhere, Mrs Justice Denham said judges should refrain from engaging in matters of public controversy or political debate.
"In a world of instant communication and commentary the concept of silence may seem unusual but it is an inherent part of our democratic tripartite system of government," she added.
