A magistrate who posted ‘politically sensitive’ posts on his X account in support of the Palestinian cause has been issued with formal advice for misconduct.
Kirk Master accepted responsibility for his actions but ‘did not agree that his posts could lead to the conclusion that he could be biased in decision-making’.
A spokesperson for the JCIO said ‘concerns’ had been raised about the posts, adding: ‘Magistrates sign a declaration and undertaking on appointment, which includes an agreement to be circumspect in their conduct and maintain the dignity, standing and good reputation of the magistracy at all times, in their private, working and public lives.
‘In addition, the social media guidance for the judiciary states that judicial office-holders should be aware of the risk of undermining trust and confidence in the judiciary by expressing, or appearing to endorse, views which could cast doubt on their objectivity. They should also not comment on matters of controversy.’
Master stressed that he did not refer to his judicial status in any of the posts. He said he ‘takes his role extremely seriously and would never consciously let his own opinions impact his judicial role’.
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However, an investigation found that in posting on a ‘politically sensitive’ matter, Master had not demonstrated the standards expected of a judicial office-holder. The investigation found there was a ‘potential’ to damage the reputation of the magistracy and Master had ‘failed to take into account that his posts could cast doubt on his independence and impartiality’.
Master had no previous findings of misconduct against him.
Issuing Master with formal advice for misconduct, Mr Justice Keehan took into consideration the fact that he had accepted responsibility for his actions and agreed to reflect on the consequences of what he had done.
