Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Other independent contractors have had their FEMPI-related cuts fully reversed. Barristers have been uniquely singled out for what has been described as extremely shabby treatment.

In some ways, the Minister is answering a question that no one actually asked. No one has asked her about the review of the free legal aid system. I view that as entirely separate based on a commitment that the Government gave to involve itself in the creation of a mechanism that would independently assess the free structure. The Bar Council wants that to be time bound. So confident is the council in its case - it should be, given that it is objectively being treated inequitably - that it is prepared to be bound by a particular mechanism. The Government has asked IALPA and Aer Lingus to get into a room and resolve their difficulties. Barristers have requested meetings with the Minister and the Minister for public expenditure and reform. Will that request be granted in order that they might be advised of the process?

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