Tom Shehan (Fine Gael)

Will the Leader invite the Minister for Justice and Equality to the House as soon as possible to discuss the free legal aid scheme? This is one of the most abused schemes in the State. It s being abused not only by criminals but also by the legal profession itself. I was sickened when I saw a court report on the television news regarding an individual with 67 previous convictions who was afforded free legal aid. The scheme should be amended. If one has three strikes, one should be out because there is no incentive for criminals not to re-offend. I would like the Minister to come to the House to tease out his thoughts on the abuse of the free legal aid scheme and changes to its delivery.