Mayo judge warmly welcomes 'poaching' of solicitor from Galway

A new solicitor has been formally welcomed to Castlebar District Court with warm words of praise and encouragement expressed from the bench, gardaí and court officials.

Solicitor Thomas J. Walsh introduced Conor Ruane, a native of Monivea, Galway, to the court ahead of proceedings.

Mr. Ruane trained with Ryan & Co., Loughrea, and practised with R.J. Emerson Solicitors in Galway before recently taking up a position with McDarby & Co. Solicitors in Ballinrobe.

A graduate of NUI Galway, Mr. Walsh said there was no doubt that Mr. Ruane would quickly settle into his new role, assisted by the support of his colleagues.

Presenting Garda Sergeant Conor McShane also extended a warm welcome on behalf of An Garda Síochána.

Judge Sandra Murphy said she was delighted to welcome Mr. Ruane, stressing the importance of young solicitors choosing to practise in 'country courts' rather than gravitating towards Dublin.

Referring to remarks made by the Attorney General at a recent law ball, Judge Murphy said it was a great pleasure to welcome new practitioners to Mayo, as it has become increasingly rare to see young solicitors choosing to practice in the area in recent years.

She described the local court system in Mayo as one that “runs like a clock”, praising the standard of court presenters and Courts Service staff.

“What really marks Mayo out,” she added, “is the quality of its solicitors, staff and the strong sense of collegiality.”

Judge Murphy joked that the court was “particularly pleased to poach” Mr. Ruane from Galway, noting that he had benefited from excellent mentors there and was now joining “one of our own” at McDarby & Company.

She said she was sure his new colleagues would be delighted to have him on board and expressed the court’s hope that he would be happy practising in Mayo for many years to come.

*Published under the Courts Reporting Scheme.