Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I did not answer that question. My apologies to the Senator. Last week, I referred to the functions of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority. Among the work it is currently undertaking is a report on education. I do not yet have the report but expect to receive it in the coming months. I expect it will deal precisely with the issues raised by Senator Clifford-Lee regarding perceived obstacles and barriers to the legal profession in terms of education. I agree with the Senator that that is the most appropriate way to deal with expanding eligibility for entry to the profession in order to ensure that people from all backgrounds are eligible to train as solicitors or barristers.

An Independent Senator earlier raised the issue of specific training for judges. Unlike many European countries, we do not have a specific training centre for judges. However, it will be considered in the context of ongoing legal education development. In many European countries, France in particular, young men and women embark on a legal career or legal education with a view to pursuing a career on the bench as a member of the judiciary. They go through a school of education specifically designed to equip people with the knowledge and expertise to conduct the affairs of the administration of justice from judicial office. I again refer to the recently established Legal Services Regulatory Authority, which has committed to several reports. I expect to receive its report on legal education in the autumn. The report may be the subject of debate in the Seanad and I would be happy to make an appropriate contribution at that time.