Legal Aid

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 October 2023

Wednesday, 4 October 2023

Ceisteanna (167, 168)

Neasa Hourigan

Ceist:

167. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Justice her plans to raise criminal legal aid fees paid to solicitors to pre-2008 levels; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42966/23]

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

168. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice if she has considered the case made by barristers that the FEMPI restrictions are being unfairly still applied to them; if any engagement is underway on the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43007/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice

I propose to take Questions Nos. 167 and 168 together.

Let me assure the Deputy that I recognise the important role played by barristers in undertaking criminal legal aid work.

Any increase in criminal legal aid fees would have to be considered as part of the estimates process for 2024, which is still underway.

Question No. 168 answered with Question No. 167.