Mr Collins, the Limerick County TD appointed earlier this year as minister of state in the Department of Justice, met with staff and was given an overview of the vital legal aid and family mediation services available at the centre in his home city.

The centre plays a key role in supporting individuals and families through legal aid and family mediation services.

It provides legal advice and representation to those who qualify, and its family mediation service provides a mediation service to families who are divorcing, separating or living apart at no cost.

Speaking during the visit, Legal Aid Board CEO Joan Crawford said: “We are proud of the work done every day by our colleagues in Limerick and throughout the country.

“Legal aid and family mediation are a cornerstone of access to justice – and this centre demonstrates how accessible, community-based services can make a real difference to people’s lives.

“Each case resolved and each person supported signifies the importance of what we do, and this Limerick centre helps on average 1,414 people per year.”

Mr Collins said: “The Legal Aid Board’s work makes a hugely positive difference to thousands of people every year by helping to ensure that modest means or income is not a barrier to people engaging with the legal system.

“I was glad for the opportunity to visit the Board’s Law and Family Mediation Centre in Limerick where I met with staff and gained further insight into the legal aid and mediation services available at the centre, which provides vital support to people in Limerick and the broader Mid-West community.”