After his surprise retirement last week, the 28-year career of the honourable and outspoken Judge John Neilan was given its due tribute in court this week (June 2 ) by his first stand-in, Judge Denis McLoughlin.
“Maybe I can use the word ‘surprised’ by his not announcing his retirement last Friday,” said Judge McLoughlin, “but he decided at 65 after 20 years [sic] to retire”.
Judge Neilan, who first sat on the Midland circuit in 1982 aged 38, allowed the chief clerk in Mullingar District Court inform those still gathered last Friday (May 28 ) of his decision, after he had dealt with his final juvenile case.
“It is quite a courageous decision on his behalf, as he could’ve gone on to 70 but decided to go when he was fit and well. He could be seen as a judge who made controversial comments, but only because he had a great interest in justice and only did so because of frustration in a system where justice wasn’t seen to be done,’ said Judge McLoughlin.
“He made his decision so he can enjoy his retirement and I wish him well”.
On behalf of the legal profession, Mr Paul Connellan paid tribute to one of the “youngest practitioners” to have taken to the bench.
“He was noted for his hard work and was willing to stay long and unsociable hours. He never refused a request to sit over weekends or for a special sitting,” he said.
“He was an advocate for the little man and could never be accused of being a shrinking violet. On finding inconsistencies, he was never shy of confronting it and he aways concluded his cases with fairness,” continued Mr Connellan.
“It is the end of an era and on behalf of the legal profession, I would like to wish him a long and healthy retirement.”
These sentiments were echoed by Inspector Jarlath Folan for the Gardai, Kieran Madigan for the DPP, Gillian Egerton for the court staff and Irene Gilmore for the Welfare and Probation Services.
And for a final tuppenceworth, as a member of the fourth estate who was once knocked back into my craven lair by the goodly fellow, he taught at least one invaluable lesson, that curmudgeon and compassion are not mutually exclusive. I have little doubt he will find many’s the dying lights.
