I have considered the application from Senator Mary Robinson to raise on the motion for the adjournment of the House tonight the following matter: "The partial breakdown of the system of legal aid in criminal cases." As discussion of this matter would involve raising the question of amending legislation, I am not accepting the application. The Senator has been notified of my decision.
Business of Seanad.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
I am astounded at your ruling, which I have to accept in this matter, because the breakdown in the administration of the current legal aid system is a fact. This is of extreme importance to the liberty of the individual. I cannot see why it cannot be raised on the adjournment of this House. It is possible that there will be a necessity for legislation ultimately in relation to legal aid and certainly in relation to civil legal aid. But that is quite different from the point I want to talk about, which is the fact that the system of criminal legal aid has broken down, the fact that children are coming before the children's court without legal aid, that defendants are coming before the courts and the system is not being administered, and the fact that the fundamental liberty of the individual is at risk in this matter. I am talking about administration, about the way in which the system is operating.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
I cannot let the Senator discuss the merits of the motion. I might suggest that if she consults with me later on we may be able to discuss it further.
I would hope to be able to waive the notice requirement and raise it on the adjournment tomorrow evening if the House is sitting.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
We will look into that matter for the Senator.