Donegal Judge Raymond Finnegan has reiterated his stance against what he described as an “adjournment culture” in local courts.
Judge Finnegan was speaking during a case at Letterkenny District Court.
Faced with the possibility of a case being adjourned again, Judge Finnegan disagreed with the solicitor and said the case must proceed.
He once again referred to the “adjournment culture” which he had previously said he was against.
The Meath man, who is also a GAA referee, said he was determined to tackle the backlog in courts as a result of the pandemic.
A pile-up of cases has resulted in hearing dates for some matters being pushed back by as much as 12 months.
“That will change,” Judge Finnegan said.
“I will adopt a reasonably strict policy of no more than two adjournments in a case. After the second date, it will be very hard to get an adjournment. Unless there are very good grounds, that won’t change.
“We need to make sure that the list moves. Twelve months for a hearing is not justice for anyone.”