Government seeks advice on Judge Seamus Woulfe's refusal to resign

The Government has asked the Attorney General for advice surrounding Supreme Court judge Seamus Woulfe's refusal to resign.

Chief Justice Frank Clarke has asked him to step down as the fallout from his attendance at the controversial Oireachtas Golf Society dinner in Galway has led to "irreparable" damage.

Mr Justice Woulfe has agreed however, to a three-month suspension without pay from the Supreme Court.

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe says no member of Government could comment on the matter until the advice from the Attorney General is received.