Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

It is apparent from the media in recent times that a significant number of such cases have been brought to court. A significant body of work is required to set up the Legal Services Ombudsman's office under the legislation. As the Deputy is aware, section 19 of the Act specifies that the costs do not accrue to the Exchequer, but come from both branches of the legal profession. At the same time we have to be sure that the running costs are reasonably efficient and cost effective. We also have to liaise with the Department of Finance on the type of arrangements vis-À-vis remuneration, but also in regard to the appointment. As far as I am concerned, and as I indicated to my office, under the legislation the appointment cannot be someone from either profession, which means that the appointment will be an open and transparent arrangement-----

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