Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I understand what Dr. Thornhill is saying. One aspect is around education and training but there are many others. Dr. Thornhill referred to keeping Ministers informed in respect of the provision of legal services, including the cost. Is much of this a recommending or research role rather than exercising the independence of the authority around the provision of legal services?

I am a little concerned because the strategic report has many references to the Minister. The members of the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality know that agencies of the State are rather bound to the Department and Minister in their legislative context. That makes it difficult for them to function according their remit. Has the board examined whether the authority is constrained by the current legislative basis to do the things it wishes to do?