Ms Molly Joyce:

My colleagues will know more about the specifics of this issue. There is a scheme available whereby people can get legal representation for their appearance before the Mental Health (Criminal Law) Review Board. The IPRT is keenly following the consultation that has just opened on the review of civil legal aid. The review is chaired by a former Chief Justice and the deadline for its completion has just been extended to February. We will be involved in that process because access to legal aid is an issue for people in prison. There is a need to address gaps that may exist, particularly in respect of civil legal aid. Arising out of the review report, we can identify what gaps there may be. This is an area of future work and I will be happy to keep the sub-committee updated in that regard and to pass on our submission when we complete it. My colleagues might be able to offer more detail on the legal aid provision that is currently available.