The European Commission published its 2026 Rule of Law Report country chapter on Ireland on 17 July 2026, assessing the justice system, anti-corruption framework, media pluralism, and civic space. The chapter highlights that while perceived judicial independence is very high (75% public, 78% companies), Ireland has the EU's lowest judges per capita and a low clearance rate for litigious civil cases (72%, the lowest in the EU). Average High Court civil proceedings lasted 630 days in 2024.
The Commission notes that 20 additional judges will be appointed under the 2025 Act, and the Civil Reform Bill (General Scheme published January 2026) aims to reduce litigation costs. A review of Civil Legal Aid was published, and Criminal Legal Aid fees saw an 8% increase. Digitalisation continues via the Courts Portal, which has been nationwide since December 2025.
On anti-corruption, the Multi-Annual Strategy to combat Economic Crime and Corruption was approved, and the statutory review of the Protected Disclosures Act starts this year. In media, the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill (published May 2026) aims to increase governance independence, and the Defamation (Amendment) Bill was finalised, introducing anti-SLAPP safeguards. The General Scheme of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation Bill was published in February 2026.
Regarding civic space, the Electoral Commission continues reviewing the 1997 Electoral Act, including legal obstacles to civil society funding. The Commission concludes that Ireland shows high judicial independence and some progress on litigation costs and media reform, but persistent concerns remain over low judge numbers, court efficiency data, and pending decisions on the Special Criminal Court and ethics framework strengthening.