Tribute to Sir Declan Morgan

Chair of the Bar Bernard Brady QC today paid tribute to Sir Declan Morgan on his retirement as Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland.

“Today marks the end of an era as Sir Declan retires as the head of our judiciary. He was called to the Bar in 1976, serving his pupillage under Patrick Markey, and embarked on a most distinguished legal career spanning over two decades in independent practice. He took silk in 1993 and was appointed to the High Court in 2004 before succeeding the late Sir Brian Kerr as Lord Chief Justice in 2009.

Sir Declan’s tenure as Lord Chief Justice has been marked by a commitment to outreach and engagement right across our society, promoting greater openness and a better public understanding of the work of the courts and the judiciary. He has been a tireless advocate in promoting the rule of law and also leaves a wealth of jurisprudence, including many complex cases involving convention rights.

Many members of the Bar have appeared in court before Sir Declan over the years. In addition to the application of his formidable intellect to the issues, the hearings were always marked by a trademark courtesy and civility. He was also keenly aware at all times that the role of the professional advocate has at its core the obligation of service to the lay client.

Sir Declan’s time in office has also been marked by many ground breaking firsts. He has championed the creation of problem solving courts and overseen the appointment of our first female High Court Judges which will culminate this year in his successor becoming the first Lady Chief Justice of Northern Ireland.

Sir Declan’s embodiment of the judicial oath has also seen him speak publicly about the difficulties of dealing with the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland; interventions which have always been marked by a keen eye on the human cost of political deadlock and inaction. His dedication to public service and the administration of justice has clearly involved the most challenging of issues at times, not least his vital role in leading the response to covid-19 over the last year and navigating the pathway to recovery.

On behalf of the Bar, it is an honour to recognise his immense contribution to the justice system in Northern Ireland and we wish him all the best for his retirement”.