Legal Aid
Seanad Éireann — 2026-05-26
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Colm Brophy (FG), Dublin South-West

I will convey the Senator's remarks on this to the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan. As mentioned, the reform of the criminal legal aid fee structure in the District Court is aimed primarily at improving efficiencies, speeding up case resolution and reducing unnecessary adjournments, while ensuring that those accused of crimes, including those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged, are provided with the legal representation to which they are constitutionally entitled. The proposed reform is intended to make the system work better for all concerned. The Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, looks forward to continuing engagement with the relevant stakeholders and representatives of the legal profession in advance of the introduction of new arrangements, including the full restoration of fees, which is due on 1 July.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/seanad/2026-05-26/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:59+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-05-26