Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour)
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1591.To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the projected cost of providing a 10% increase in 2025 of criminal legal aid fees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33019/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy may be aware, last year I secured funding of €9m to increase the fees payable to legal professionals for criminal legal aid by 10% from 1 January 2024.

This 10% increase was the starting point in a wider process. It was the first step on a pathway to further engaging with the profession and with the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform. I have also committed to seeking to make further progress in the upcoming Budget in relation to the restoration of criminal legal aid fees.

I am advised that the projected cost for a 10% increase of criminal legal aid fees in 2025 is estimated to be €9.3 million.