Legal Aid
1137. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) on 22 November 2005; the steps he will take to address the issues contained therein; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1414/06]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I can confirm for the Deputy that the correspondence referred to was received in my Department. Observations were sought and received from the Legal Aid Board and a reply issued to the individual concerned last week.
Under the terms of the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995, the Legal Aid Board has sole responsibility for deciding if an applicant is eligible for its services. The Act further provides that I, as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, cannot have any involvement in individual cases. In the circumstances, therefore, I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that I cannot intervene in this case.