Judges across Ireland received more than €2.1 million in expenses in 2024, according to newly released figures from the Courts Service. The data, obtained through a Freedom of Information request, shows significant variations in expense claims across different levels of the judiciary.
A total of €947,000 was paid out for travel and mileage, while €1.12 million went toward subsistence costs such as accommodation and meals for judges who frequently travel for work. An additional €34,754 accounted for incidental expenses, including judicial attire like wigs and gowns.
The Courts Service said the amounts claimed varied widely based on where judges are stationed and the geographic area they cover. Judges of the Supreme Court, who primarily sit in Dublin, claimed some of the lowest amounts. Ten Supreme Court judges claimed a total of just €3,920, with several not claiming expenses at all.
In contrast, Circuit and District Court judges—who often travel across the country—submitted much higher claims. Six judges from these courts each claimed over €30,000 for the year. The highest claimant was District Court Judge Gerald Furlong, who received €54,361, including €19,421 for travel and mileage and €34,940 in subsistence.
Other high claimants included District Court Judge Miriam Walsh, who received €41,372, and Circuit Court Judge James O’Donohoe, who claimed €39,170. Three additional judges, one from the Circuit Court and two from the District Court, also submitted claims exceeding €30,000. The Courts Service noted that some payments made in 2024 may include arrears from previous years.
A breakdown of expenses by court level shows that Court of Appeal judges received €20,000, while High Court judges claimed just under €177,000. Claims from the Circuit Court totaled €714,000, and District Court judges accounted for €1.18 million, reflecting the extensive travel required in these courts.
A Courts Service spokesperson emphasized that all costs are calculated based on standard civil service travel and subsistence rates. Nearly 98% of expenses were incurred by judges attending court sittings outside their home locations. An information note added that the Circuit Court, which operates regionally, and the District Court, which is the most geographically dispersed and busiest court in Ireland, naturally require substantial travel.
The note also clarified that expenses for judges serving on tribunals or boards of inquiry are reimbursed by the relevant government departments.
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