Tributes paid to late Judge Grainne O'Neill

TRIBUTES have been paid in Mayo to District Court Judge Grainne O'Neill, who passed away, aged just 46.

A native of Athlone, Judge O'Neill became one of the youngest ever to be appointed to the District Court bench in 2014 and since then had presided over many sittings in Co. Mayo.

At a District Court in Ballina today, Judge Mary Devins paid an emotional tribute to her late colleague and friend, who had passed away the previous day, as she extended her deepest sympathy to Judge O'Neill's family.

She said that during her short time on the bench, Judge O'Neill had brought to her position every excellent trait in a judge – empathy, humanity, emotional intelligence, intellectual rigour and a wicked sense of humour.

Above all else, Judge Devins added, the deceased never put herself first – a 'remarkable characteristic' in this time of over-estimation of self and ego.

One aspect of her character drew some teasing from those who knew her, however; the fact that all of her political ducks were swans whose white feathers were silicone-coated and always remained unsullied, no matter what!

Mr. Adrian Bourke, solicitor, said Judge O'Neill had been a 'consummate professional' and a good judge, and prior to that a solicitor, who demonstrated kindness, consideration and patience in her work.

He added that she had a great sense of humour and was 'among her own kind' in that respect in Mayo, where she presided over District Court sittings in Ballina, Belmullet and Castlebar.

Mr. James Ward, solicitor, said it was a really sad day for everyone in legal circles, while Superintendent Joe Doherty, on behalf of An Garda Síochána, said he had been immediately struck by Judge O'Neill's legal knowledge, astuteness and ability to get to the heart of matters when he first encountered her shortly after she was appointed to the bench in 2014.

Ms. Siobhan Terry, court clerk, extended sympathy to the family and friends of Judge O'Neill on behalf of the staff of the court offices in Ballina and Castlebar.

An exceptional person who will be sadly missed was how she described the deceased.