McDowell threat to restrictive legal practices

JUSTICE MINISTER Michael McDowell last night criticised the restrictive practices of the law profession and called for greater transparency and value for money from barristers and solicitors.

Mr McDowell also warned the legal profession that self-regulation would be scrapped if it did not favour the public interest.

Speaking in Dublin, Mr McDowell took a broadside at the continued distinction between barristers and solicitors.