Donal O’Sullivan, Solicitor – Criminal Legal Aid Scheme

Solicitors working in criminal defence have withdrawn their services in an escalating dispute with the Minister for Justice over a proposed new payment scheme for criminal legal aid.

The action raises serious questions about access to justice and the impact on people who rely on legal representation, including those involved in rape and other serious criminal cases.

The Minister Jim O’Callaghan  is due to address solicitors this morning, with the dispute showing little sign of easing. Donal O’Sullivan, solicitor, joins me now to explain what’s at stake and what happens next.