Law Society of Ireland has welcomed a record level of funding announced today for the justice sector, which it says will preserve access to justice during the pandemic and enable the courts system to take advantage of modern technology.

Commenting on the measures announced by Ministers Donohoe and McGrath, President of the Law Society of Ireland Michele O’Boyle said, “The allocation of €3 billion to the justice sector is very welcome and, critically, it will go a long way towards preserving access to justice in these difficult times.”

“The Law Society has long advocated for significant investment in digital and ICT capabilities, particularly in the courts system. The complexities of operating during the pandemic accelerated the urgency of this issue,” said Ms O’Boyle. “I particularly welcome the announcement of a total gross allocation of €158.8 million for the courts system, with €8 million specifically directed towards a much needed and long awaited Courts Modernisation Programme.”

Ms O’Boyle continued, “Other Law Society priority issues, such as Criminal Legal Aid and the Legal Aid Board, have also been recognised in today’s Budget. An additional €3.7 million and €2 million, respectively, for these vital programmes will have an important, positive impact on preserving access to justice.”

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