Ms Sara Phelan:

This is not just anecdotal. We have the data to show that two thirds of our criminal practitioners leave the criminal Bar within six years of commencing practice there. It has been classified as a brain drain in some ways. Having invested time, energy, commitment and education in working as criminal law practitioners, not only do they suffer when they leave, but so do the public at large and the system because all of that expertise is being lost. Our data show that only one third remain after approximately six years. This is a very significant concern for us, which I addressed in my opening statement in terms of the knock-on effects on the people of Ireland and the rule of law in general.