William Cotter
Question:35 Mr. Cotter asked the Minister for Justice if he has any plans to provide a nationwide civil legal aid scheme on the basis of tendering within the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Civil Legal Aid Scheme.
Gerry Reynolds
Question:58 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Justice if he has any plans to provide a nationwide civil legal aid scheme on the basis of tendering within the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Godfrey Timmins
Question:81 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice if he has any plans to provide a nationwide civil legal aid scheme on the basis of tendering within the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the subject.
P. J. Sheehan
Question:84 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for Justice if he has any plans to provide a nationwide civil legal aid scheme on the basis of tendering within the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the subject.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35, 58, 81 and 84 together.
I have no plans to seek tenders from within the private sector for the provision of civil legal aid. The Legal Aid Board was established to provide a civil legal aid and advice service. It is gradually expanding its network of full-time and part-time law centres as resources permit and I am satisfied that this is the best way to proceed. Naturally, progress will depend on overall financial circumstances.