Monday 15 December 2008

Justice Kirby to be replaced by NSW judge


Justice Michael Kirby will be replaced on the High Court bench by the New South Wales Court of Appeal judge, Justice Virginia Bell.

She is the fourth woman to be appointed to the High Court and her appointment will take effect from February 3 next year.

Justice Kirby will retire after reaching the mandatory retirement age.

Justice Bell began her career with the Redfern Legal centre in 1978 and served as counsel assisting the Royal Commission into the New South Wales Police Services.

She has also sat on the bench of the New South Wales Supreme Court and as a Commissioner with that state's Law Reform Commission.

Quote: As anyone can see by these links and perhaps many more posted elsewhere, His Honour Justice Michael Kirby has spoken out for social justice issues. I do hope that Virginia Bell follows in his footsteps. From the team Mr Kirby...Thanks.

Related:

Brennan to head human rights consultation
The Federal Government will appoint a four-member panel, headed by Jesuit priest and lawyer Frank Brennan, to consult with the public on strengthening human rights laws in Australia - including through a charter of rights.

Failures show need for bill of rights - Kirby
High Court Judge Michael Kirby says government failures on law reforms justify enacting a charter of rights.

Same-sex relationship laws still lagging
High Court Judge Michael Kirby says despite moves to amend discrimination in a number of federal laws, same-sex relationships have been left behind.

Judge attacks disparity in laws
Australia has a long way to go in protecting the rights of women, Aborigines, migrants and homosexuals, High Court judge Michael Kirby said.

Push for federal charter of human rights
High Court Judge Justice Michael Kirby has again called for Australia to adopt a charter of human rights.

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