asked the Minister for Justice when it is intended to set up the committee to advise on legal aid; its terms of reference; the number of members; the qualifications for membership; and when it will report its findings.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Legal Aid.
146.
I hope to set up the committee to advise on the question of the introduction of a system of legal aid in civil matters very shortly. The precise terms of reference and the membership of the committee are at present being settled.
I intend that the committee will consist of representatives of both branches of the legal profession, a representative of FLAC and officers of interested Government Departments. The chairman will, I hope, be a judge.
I cannot, of course, say when the committee will report, but I am sure they will lose no time in completing their investigations.
Is this a committee to advise on the establishment of legal aid?
In civil matters.
Does the Minister hope to establish it soon?
Yes, terms of reference have already been settled and I hope to issue invitations in the next three or four days.
Does this arise by reason of the fact that I have a Private Members' Motion on the Order Paper?
No, this is part of the Coalition's programme to eliminate inequality and injustice.
The remaining questions will appear on next Tuesday's Order Paper unless Deputies are willing to accept a written reply which they can obtain at the General Office.