Brendan Smith
Question:17 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform when a full-time law centre will be established in Cavan; the likely staffing complement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12238/95]
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Cavan Law Centre.
As part of the programme of extension and development of the services of the Civil Legal Aid Board a part-time law centre was opened in Cavan in February, 1995.
The operation of that centre is now the subject of a review by the board in consultation with my Department with the aim of making it a full-time centre. The staffing complement of the centre is part of that review. Details of any decisions made in relation to the centre will be announced as soon as possible.
Was the end of 1995 the target date for establishing a full-time law centre, as was indicated by the Minister previously?
Yes. The operation of the centre is subject to review by the board which is examining that matter in consultation with my Department. Final decisions on its implementation will be made as soon as that review has been completed.
Can I take it that we can be confident that the centre will be established by the end of this year?
I cannot be that specific. The 1995 phase of the development plan provides for the opening of a full-time centre in Cavan. The review and discussions in connection with that are proceeding. I am awaiting a report on that examination. Other questions of staffing and premises might come into play. However, the matter is under review. That is the target but I cannot give a firm commitment on it at this point.