Show Notes
In this episode, we’re exploring the David Norris case—a pivotal legal battle that challenged the constitutionality of laws criminalising male homosexuality. Join author Colm Tóibín, former President Mary McAleese, and David Norris himself as they recount the struggle to overturn laws dating back to the British Empire. In this episode, we’ll unpack the personal and legal journey of David Norris, who fought against outdated and unjust legislation in the courts, and changed the hearts and minds of a nation. This is the story of courage, visibility, and the fight for equality in a society where love, until then, was criminalised.
More from The Irish Courts Podcast
Miscarriages of justice raise difficult questions about power, accountability, and what happens when the wrong person is convicted. In this episode, we examine one of Ireland's most significant miscarriage of justice cases: the case of Martin Conmey, who spent decades trying to clear his name after a wrongful conviction linked to the murder of Una Lynskey. Join Professor Clare Hamilton of Maynooth University, journalist Mick Clifford, and Senior Counsel Remy Farrell as they explore the investigation, the failures that led to a miscarriage of justice, and the profound personal cost for those involved. From witness coercion and undisclosed evidence to the introduction of the Criminal Procedure Act 1993, this episode examines how wrongful convictions occur, the safeguards designed to address them, and why vigilance remains essential to protecting justice. Episode lead: The Hon. Mr. Justice Sean Gillane, Judge of the High Court, member of the Irish Courts Podcast editorial team
Every day, headlines and social media feeds carry stories from our courts. However, court reporting is more than news, it’s a constitutional imperative and a cornerstone of transparency in Irish justice. In this episode, we explore why reporting the law matters, how it has evolved, and why it remains vital for democracy. Join Professor Rachael Walsh - School of Law, Trinity College Dublin, Mary Carolan - Legal Affairs Correspondent, The Irish Times, Dave O’Connell - Editor, Connacht Tribune, and Dr. Carol Coulter - Director of the Child Law Project as they unpack the constitutional foundations, ethical challenges, and the realities of reporting in a digital age. From contempt rulings and in camera restrictions to the rise of social media and the enduring appetite for true crime, this is the story of how court reporting shapes public trust in justice.
Join Ms. Justice Eileen Roberts of the High Court, Dr Brian Barry, Associate Professor, School of Law, Trinity College Dublin and Karlin Lillington, Irish Times Technology Journalist as they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the legal landscape; from courtroom transcription and legal research to sentencing algorithms and deep fakes. This episode examines the promise and peril of AI in Irish courts, asking whether technology can truly support justice without compromising fairness, dignity, or judicial independence. We unpack the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI in the courtroom. This is the story of innovation, caution, and the enduring need for human judgment.
Join Professor Niamh Howlin, Patrick Gageby SC, and Ms. Justice Caroline Biggs as they trace the evolution of jury trials, from packed juries and exclusionary laws to landmark cases that opened the courtroom to women and broadened public participation. We’ll uncover how the jury system acts as a safeguard against State overreach, and how its transformation reflects Ireland’s changing values, from colonial legacies to constitutional rights. This is the story of fairness, representation, and the power of ordinary citizens to deliver justice.