Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In relation to the criminal legal aid system, that would be my view.

In relation to the point that the Senator made about contributions, they were increased. The impact was monitored carefully by the Legal Aid Board. They did make a recommendation to the former Minister and I do not intend, at this point, to reduce funding.

The money that was gained from it has been used to reduce the backlog. In last year's budget we increased the amount of money for legal aid so that the board could bring in extra solicitors to reduce the backlog. Obviously in family law cases that was very important. I know the board has a waiting list as I spoke to its CEO in the past few days. If it requires funding in the coming year then we will attempt to address the matter, as far as we can.