Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 7

Written Answers. - Free Legal Aid Scheme.

Máirín Quill

Question:

140 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the progress, if any, which has been made in finding a solution to the stoppage of the free legal aid scheme in Cork; and when operation of this scheme will recommence in Cork.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Flynn)

The Southern Law Association withdrew from the operation of the criminal legal aid scheme in Cork three weeks after delivering an ultimatum to my predecessor to introduce a new level of fees which they claimed was on the same level as those charged in private practice.

The Incorporated Law Society is the representative body for all solicitors in the State and is therefore the appropriate body for my Department to negotiate with on matters relating to solicitors in connection with the operation of the criminal legal aid scheme.

The level of fees paid to solicitors under the criminal legal aid scheme is a nationwide issue which affects solicitors throughout the country and not just those operating under the scheme in Cork. On 18 February, the Law Society submitted a claim for a complete review of the fees paid under the scheme. A meeting to discuss the claim is due to take place this week.

I have in the past appealed to the Southern Law Association to end their industrial action but they have declined to do so. I again appeal to them to resume their work as defenders of persons before the courts pending the outcome of the negotiations between my Department and the Law Society.