“It is vital,” Mayo TD calls for urgent talks to resolve Criminal Legal Aid dispute

Mayo TD Keira Keogh has called on the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan to engage in urgent talks with solicitors to resolve the ongoing dispute over changes to the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme.

Deputy Keogh made the appeal after meeting with Mayo solicitors Catherine McDarby and Gary Mulchrone, who outlined their concerns about the revised Criminal Legal Aid arrangements introduced on July 1.

The new system replaces the previous payment model, under which solicitors received €239.38 for a client’s first court appearance and €59.86 for each subsequent hearing, with a flat fee of €520 per client, regardless of how many times a case returns to court.

According to the solicitors, the changes raise serious concerns about the sustainability of criminal defence work, particularly in rural counties such as Mayo. They warned that fewer solicitors may be willing or able to take on legal aid cases, making it increasingly difficult for people to access legal representation.

Deputy Keogh warned that Mayo is already facing significant challenges in maintaining access to criminal legal aid services.

READ MORE: Mayo solicitors warn TDs of “devastating” impact of new Criminal Legal Aid scheme

“We cannot allow the county to become a criminal legal aid desert where people struggle to access legal representation when they need it most,” she said.

Deputy Keogh said access to justice depends not only on the courts but on ensuring qualified solicitors are available to represent those who require legal assistance.

“Everyone deserves access to legal representation, regardless of where they live or how much money they have. That principle cannot be weakened,” she said.

She also stressed that any reform of the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme should be developed in consultation with those working within the system.

“It is vital that solicitors who undertake this essential work are heard in discussions relating to these changes,” she said.

“There is currently an impasse between the Minister and solicitors on this issue. I believe it is in everyone’s interest that meaningful engagement takes place,” she added. “Talking is the only way through this dispute, and I am urging the Minister to engage directly with the profession to find a workable solution that protects access to justice while addressing the concerns that have been raised.”

Deputy Keogh confirmed she will raise the concerns highlighted by Catherine McDarby and Gary Mulchrone directly with Minister Jim O’Callaghan.

“Reforms must protect both access to justice and the long-term sustainability of legal services in rural Ireland,” she concluded.