Nuala Egan SC

The statement of strategy for 2024–2026 places a strong focus on community service, alternative dispute resolution, and civil justice reform.

Joan Crawford, CEO of the Legal Aid Board, said: “For nearly three decades, the Legal Aid Board has been steadfast in offering expert legal advice and representation to our clients.

“Over the years, we have expanded our services, including the addition of the family mediation service, solidifying our position as a respected agency offering legal and mediation services to the public.

“Our journey, one we are immensely proud of, continues to evolve, presenting new challenges and inspiring us to excel. It is on this journey that we introduce the statement of strategy for 2024–2026.”

Nuala Egan SC, the recently-appointed chairperson of the Board, added: “This strategy, launched at the start of my tenure as chairperson of the Legal Aid Board, encompasses our purpose, mission, vision, and values, while also addressing key objectives and challenges.

“With a strong focus on community service, alternative dispute resolution, and civil justice reform, this strategy emphasises quality, inclusivity, and transparency — principles that we hold in the highest of regards.”

Justice minister Helen McEntee was present at yesterday’s launch event for the strategy.

Speaking there, Mrs McEntee said: “The Legal Aid Board plays a vital role in Irish society, providing legal aid, advice and representation in order to support people of limited means access justice in civil law matters.

“Its family mediation service supports many families each year to reach early agreements on a range of different family law matters stemming from separation and relationship breakdown.

“The emphasis of the Board’s statement of strategy for 2024-2026 on service to the community, alternative dispute resolution and civil justice reform is to be welcomed, as are the principles underpinning the Board’s work, as set out in the strategy: quality, inclusivity and transparency.

“The Board is an important part of many of the reforms being progressed by my Department, including family justice, the review of civil legal aid and broader civil justice reform.”