Vol. 547 No. 1
929 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the legislation to facilitate the practice of the profession of a lawyer by EU nationals here has been implemented; if not, the implications of his failure to implement this for the ability of Irish trained lawyers to practice in other countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1385/02]
I have received legal advice to the effect that a provision in primary legislation is necessary to transpose EC Directive 98/5 on the right of establishment of lawyers, in addition to regulations under the European Communities Act 1972. The necessary provision will be made by way of an amendment to the Solicitors (Amendment) Bill which is currently on Committee Stage, having been passed by the Seanad. I would hope that the Bill can be enacted as soon as possible. This will enable me to make the necessary regulations to give full effect to the directive. The delay in complying with the directive here should not impede an Irish lawyer from availing of its provisions in another member state which has implemented the directive as implementation does not depend on reciprocity.
