Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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242. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if there are plans to reverse the financial emergency measures in the public interest, FEMPI, cuts to the fees of barristers contracted by the State to defend and prosecute criminal law matters; if he plans to meet with representatives to discuss this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42030/21]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I fully acknowledge and appreciate the very important work undertaken by barristers who prosecute criminal work on behalf of the State and my Department has engaged constructively with key stakeholders including the Bar Council of Ireland, the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions and the Department of Justice in relation to this matter. In particular it has sought evidence to support any claims that the reductions imposed are linked to significant recruitment and retention issues, thereby potentially adversely impacting the administration of justice.

While my Department has not yet been provided with evidential data to support such claims, it remains available to review any further information that may be provided.

My Department has also sought advices from the Attorney General's Office as to whether the State has an obligation in relation to these professional fees. My Department will continue to keep this issue under review and engage with key stakeholders, as appropriate.