Suspects can have solicitor at questioning

The Government looks set to create a legal milestone by granting suspects the right to have a solicitor present during questioning by gardaí.

However, struggling Garda finances will come under pressure as the scheme could cost up to €5m a year or more compared to the €900,000 cost of the current limited scheme.

There is no legal right in Ireland to have a solicitor during questioning, although there is a right of reasonable access to a lawyer while in custody.