Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 484: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the criteria for the appointment of barristers to represent the State and its agencies; if millions of euro of public funds have been spent in the Morris tribunal on barristers and the public; and the basis upon which barristers are offered such lucrative work. [31484/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The procedure for the appointment of tribunal counsel is that the chairperson of the proposed tribunal identifies counsel on a criteria of suitability, expertise and experience and submits these names to the Attorney General for approval. The Attorney General approves the appointment having discussed the suitability of counsel for the tribunal with the chairperson. The names of the approved counsel are then submitted to the Department of the Minister responsible for the tribunal, who pays the counsel in accordance with rates sanctioned by the Department of Finance. Counsel to represent Departments before a tribunal are nominated by the Attorney General on a criteria of suitability, expertise and experience and are paid by the Department they represent at rates sanctioned by the Department of Finance.

The total cost of legal fees paid in relation to the Morris tribunal since its establishment in April 2002 to the end of September 2005 is €9.94 million.