Justice Minister Stands Firm on Legal Aid Reforms | Cork News

Cork News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 3, 2026 · 1m

Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan is doubling down on sweeping reforms to Ireland’s criminal legal aid system, introducing a flat €520 fee for solicitors — a drastic shift from the old system’s fragmented payments — despite widespread backlash from legal professionals who say it’s financially unsustainable and unfair. Over 1,000 cases have been postponed, mainly in the District Court, as solicitors pull out in protest, accusing the minister of implying they’re profiting off the system. O’Callaghan insists his focus is on delivering efficiency and value for the public, not lawyers’ profits, and…