James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In its over 40 years of operation, the civil legal aid scheme has been a significant and beneficial public service, providing legal aid and advice to people of limited means in civil disputes, including family law. However, since the scheme was set up Irish society has changed and the demands on the services have grown. In June 2022, the Minister for Justice, Deputy Helen McEntee, established the civil legal aid review group to review the current operation of the civil legal aid scheme and make recommendations for its future. The review group is chaired by former Chief Justice Frank Clarke and the membership is drawn from legal practitioners, academics, Department officials, those who work with marginalised groups, and representatives from the Legal Aid Board, which administers the statutory scheme.

The financial eligibility threshold for the civil legal aid scheme was last revised for income in 2006 and for capital assets in 2013. The current review will allow for an assessment of how flexible and responsive the scheme is to the needs of those it is intended to serve, including in relation to financial eligibility. As part of the review, the comprehensive multi-phased process of consultation has been conducted to ensure that as wide a range of views as possible is captured. The results of all elements of the consultation are now being carefully considered by the review group. The Minister, Deputy McEntee, looks forward to receiving its report when finalised and considering its recommendations. This matter will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

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