Written answers

Tuesday, 25 October 2005

Department of Education and Science

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme

9:00 pm

Photo of Michael D HigginsMichael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 539: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied that the decision by the Incorporated Law Society of Ireland to issue a notice to persons applying to the Residential Institutions Redress Board referencing the society's complaints procedure, is an adequate response to the matter of allegations of wrongdoing in connection with solicitors' fees for work before the redress board, in terms of ensuring compensation of victims and deterrence of such future practises. [30278/05]

Photo of Mary HanafinMary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I welcome the steps being taken by the Law Society to investigate and deal with complaints in relation to some solicitors charging victims of abuse legal fees in respect of work carried out before the redress board. I will not be satisfied, however, as to the adequacy of the society's response in this regard until all persons who were wrongly charged fees are fully reimbursed and action is taken, including disciplinary measures where appropriate, to prevent a recurrence of this practice.

My immediate concern is that victims who were overcharged are refunded their money without delay and I understand that some people have already been refunded. There is also the wider question of maintaining public confidence in the solicitor profession and its regulation by the society. It is most important, therefore, that this issue is addressed promptly and effectively by the Law Society. On the basis of its recent statements, it appears that there is a clear determination by the society to do so. If not, it will be necessary for the Government to consider what legislative changes are required in ensuring full reimbursement of victims and effective regulation of the profession. I have spoken to the Attorney General who is pursuing correspondence with the Law Society in relation to this matter. I expect that the results of the investigation undertaken by the society will be made known to the Government and the public as soon as possible.

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