Jim O'Callaghan: “And those reductions in costs have been achieved through difficult reforms that Colm and I have introduced as policies.”

I remain open to continued engagement with the Law Society and my officials are available to discuss operational issues that may arise in the implementation of the scheme.

In 2024, the cost of Ukrainian accommodation was €1.16 billion. In 2026, this was down to €606 million, and we're looking next year to have an allocation in the region of €177 million.

I made a series of concessions.

I would appeal to solicitors to come along with the majority of our colleagues who are providing the service under the criminal legal aid scheme.