Sir Bernard McCloskey Obituary: Former Northern Ireland Appeal Court Judge Dies at 70
Northern Ireland’s legal community is mourning the death of Sir Bernard McCloskey, a distinguished jurist and former Lord Justice of Appeal who died on November 11, 2026, aged 70.
His death was announced by the office of the Lady Chief Justice of Northern Ireland, Dame Siobhan Keegan, who paid tribute to his contribution to the legal profession and the administration of justice.
Dame Siobhan described Sir Bernard as a distinguished jurist who made an important contribution both as a barrister and as a judge. She also recognised his generosity towards charitable causes and his willingness to support and engage with younger members of the legal profession.
She extended condolences on behalf of the judiciary to his wife, children and wider family.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Sir Bernard McCloskey built a legal career spanning several decades, earning recognition through his work as a barrister, senior judge and legal administrator.
He was educated at Queen’s University Belfast before obtaining a Certificate in International Human Rights Law at the University of Strasbourg. He was called to the Bar in 1979 and took silk in 1999, marking an important milestone in his professional development.
In September 2008, he was appointed a High Court judge in Northern Ireland. His responsibilities later expanded to include leadership roles within the wider judicial system.
From 2009 to 2012, he chaired the Northern Ireland Law Commission. Between 2013 and 2017, he served as President of the UK Upper Tribunal’s Immigration and Asylum Chamber.
He was appointed a Lord Justice of Appeal in Northern Ireland on September 5, 2019, joining the senior judiciary at the Court of Appeal in Belfast. He held that position until his retirement earlier in 2026.
Contributions to Northern Ireland’s Judiciary
Throughout his judicial career, Sir Bernard dealt with a wide range of legal matters, including public law, human rights, immigration and judicial review.
His work contributed to the development and administration of justice in Northern Ireland. Beyond his formal judicial responsibilities, he was also recognised for supporting charitable activities and encouraging younger lawyers.
His colleagues have remembered him as a dedicated public servant and a valued member of the legal community.
Tributes and Family Condolences
Following confirmation of his death, Dame Siobhan Keegan expressed sadness on behalf of the judiciary and acknowledged the loss felt by colleagues and legal professionals.
Her statement also recognised the importance of his family and the personal loss they are experiencing.
Sir Bernard McCloskey’s career leaves a significant record of public service, legal scholarship and judicial work. His contribution to Northern Ireland’s legal institutions will remain part of his professional legacy.
The privacy of his wife, children and wider family should be respected as they mourn his passing. Any funeral or memorial arrangements should be included only when confirmed by the family or an authorised representative.