Ronan Keane facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ronan Keane
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|---|---|
| Chief Justice of Ireland | |
| In office 1 June 2000 – 23 July 2004 |
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| Nominated by | Government of Ireland |
| Appointed by | Mary McAleese |
| Preceded by | Liam Hamilton |
| Succeeded by | John L. Murray |
| Judge of the Supreme Court | |
| In office 21 January 1996 – 28 November 2004 |
|
| Nominated by | Government of Ireland |
| Appointed by | Mary Robinson |
| Judge of the High Court | |
| In office 11 July 1979 – 21 January 1996 |
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| Nominated by | Government of Ireland |
| Appointed by | Patrick Hillery |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 20 July 1932 Castleknock, Dublin, Ireland |
| Political party | Fianna Fáil |
| Spouse |
Terry Keane
(m. 1962; div. 1996) |
| Relations | Diarmuid Gavin (son-in-law) |
| Children | 3 |
| Education | Blackrock College |
| Alma mater |
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Ronan Colman Keane, born on July 20, 1932, is a retired Irish judge. He held a very important position as the Chief Justice of Ireland from 2000 to 2004. Before that, he was a judge in the Supreme Court of Ireland and the High Court.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Ronan Keane grew up in Dublin, Ireland. He attended Blackrock College, a well-known school in Dublin. After school, he went to University College Dublin (UCD). In 1953, he earned a degree in Modern History.
He then studied law and became a barrister in 1954. A barrister is a lawyer who represents people in court. In 1970, he became a Senior Counsel. This is a special title for experienced barristers.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Ronan Keane's career in law was very impressive.
Becoming a Judge
In July 1979, he was appointed as a judge of the High Court. The High Court deals with serious legal cases. He served there for many years.
Important Roles and Contributions
He led the Tribunal of Inquiry into the Stardust fire in 1981. This was an important investigation into a tragic event. From 1987 to 1992, he was the chairman of the Law Reform Commission. This group works to improve Ireland's laws.
Ronan Keane also wrote many legal books and papers. He helped other countries in Europe develop their legal systems. This was part of programmes with the Council of Europe.
Reaching the Highest Court
In 1996, he was appointed to the Supreme Court of Ireland. This is the highest court in Ireland. Then, in 2000, he became the Chief Justice. This means he was the most senior judge in the country. He retired from this role in 2004.
Personal Life and Family
In 1962, Ronan Keane married Therese O'Donnell. She became well-known as Terry Keane, a fashion journalist. They had three children together. They also became close to Terry's adopted daughter.
Ronan and Terry later lived apart but remained friends. Their son Tim sadly passed away in 2004. Their daughter, Justine Keane, is married to Diarmuid Gavin. He is a famous Irish garden designer and TV personality.
Later Years and Recognition
After retiring, Ronan Keane continued to be involved in important work. In 2001, he received an Honorary Doctorate from University College Dublin. This is a special award for his achievements. He has also been a professor at Trinity College Dublin since his retirement.
For some years, he was the independent chairman of the Appeals Board of the Turf Club of Ireland. This group deals with appeals related to horse racing.
