LATEST: New District Court judge takes her seat in Tipperary

Judge Marie Keane has become the District Court judge for the Tipperary district. 

Judge Keane takes over from Judge Elizabeth MacGrath who passed away in July this year. 

At her first sitting in Thurles, Judge Keane paid tribute to her late colleague. 

“It is a very bittersweet occasion for me. Liz passed away so tragically and suddenly in July. It was a shock to us all and all of you. 

“She has left a legacy that will be hard to emulate,” said Judge Keane. 

On behalf of the solicitors at the court, Patrick Kennedy welcomed the new District Court judge.

He said everyone in the court had "a function and role" and hoped the court would continue in the cooperative spirit it has always enjoyed. 

Mr Kennedy also said it was great to have a hurling fan on the bench as the Clare native is known to be a GAA fan. 

“We wish you all the best in the future,” said Mr Kennedy. 

On behalf of the state, Sergeant Tom Hanrahan welcomed the new judge, but quipped he “would not bring hurling into it.”

“You are very welcome to Thurles,” said Sgt Hanrahan. 

Judge Keane said she was grateful for the "warm welcome." 

While she has been a travelling judge for nine years, she said she has always found the Tipperary district to be a “pleasant place.” 

Judge Keane said she hoped the cooperation between the solicitors, state and bench would continue. 

But the judge did say she would be making some changes.