Taoiseach Micheál Martin Urges Solicitors Not to Withdraw from Courts Over Legal Aid Changes

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has stated that withdrawing from courts is not the «correct course of action» as solicitors continue to withdraw services from the criminal legal aid scheme. This follows the implementation of a new flat-fee payment model for District Court cases on Wednesday, replacing a system where solicitors were paid per appearance.

Up to 60 solicitors staged a walkout at the Criminal Court of Justice on Wednesday. Martin urged solicitors to «continue to defend people and continue to represent people,» noting «movement» on the initial fee offer. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan increased the proposed flat fee from €455 to €520 earlier this week. Previously, solicitors received around €240 for the first appearance and €60 for each subsequent sitting.

Martin emphasized the importance of reform to make systems more effective, efficient, and provide better value. A Department of Justice report indicated solicitors were «maximising» earnings through the old system, with O’Callaghan citing «very clear abuses.» The department claims the reform will simplify administration, incentivize timely case resolution, protect access to justice, and ensure fair remuneration. Law Society president Rosemary Loftus warned that solicitors resigning from the scheme would have a «devastating impact on access to justice.»