Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 December 2020
432. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice the position regarding the Waterford Law Centre, Legal Aid Board, Canada Street, Waterford; if her attention has been drawn to concerns raised locally regarding the planned relocation of the offices; if she will engage with management and staff at the law centre with a view to addressing their concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42894/20]
View answerThe Legal Aid Board provides legal advice and aid under the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995 and the Civil Legal Aid Regulations 1996-2017. The Board delivers these services through directly employed solicitors in its network of law centres around the country and through private solicitors from its private practitioner panels.
Section 3(3) of the Act provides that the Board shall, subject to the provisions of this Act, be independent in the exercise of its functions.
However, to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had inquiries made with the Legal Aid Board. I am informed that the Board is dealing with the matter to which the Deputy refers. I understand that it has for some years sought to obtain a new office premises as the existing location is no longer suitable for its needs. I am further informed that Legal Aid Board management has met recently with each member of staff of the law centre on the matter to listen and examine what measures may be of assistance in addressing these concerns. These issues are now being considered by the Legal Aid Board with a view to finding an appropriate solution.
