Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Mar 1990

Vol. 397 No. 3

Written Answers. - Portlaoise Legal Aid Centre.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

139 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the service provided by the Civil Legal Aid Centre at Portlaoise, County Laois, has been suspended due to a lack of resources; if such suspension is considered temporary or permanent; when he expects the service to be resumed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke)

I am informed by the Legal Aid Board that the suspension of legal services under the civil legal aid scheme at the Portlaoise Law Centre since March 1989 is temporary.

The situation is being reviewed by the board now that they are in the process of recruiting seven additional solicitors and secretarial staff as authorised by the Government recently. I am confident that the part time law centre in Portlaoise should be open again soon.