Demand for legal aid among asylum seekers rises 27%

The 2014 annual report from the Legal Aid Board shows 902 people sought asylum-related legal services, an increase of 27% on 2013.

It mirrored an increase in the numbers applying for asylum in the State. The report noted 2014 had been the first year “for some time” there was an increase in the numbers seeking services for asylum related matters.

Overall, demand for the board’s civil legal aid services reduced by about 8% on the 2013 figure although it remained high compared to the pre-recession period.