The idea was mooted for as a possibility for court sittings during covid-19.
The government says ordinary crimes will not be tried in non-jury courts during the coronavirus crisis.
The idea has been suggested to ensure proper social-distancing when the courts system gets fully back up and running.
The Irish Times says the Bar Council of Ireland, which represents barristers, is behind the idea.
But Justice Minister and Laois-Offaly Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan says he has no plans to extend the remit of non-jury courts in criminal trials.
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