Brother of Tusla legal affairs boss one of the top 10 earners in barristers’ fees at the agency

A brother of the head of legal services at Tusla has been one of the top 10 earners in barristers’ fees at the agency for the last three years. Jim Benson BL received €53,096, €50,201, and €77,397 for 2016, 2017, and 2018 respectively for services to Tusla.

His sister, Pamela Benson, took up her role as head of legal services permanently in 2015. In that year, Mr Benson received €4,034 in fees from the child and family agency. The head of legal services in Tusla is charged with appointing counsel when notified by solicitors that one is required.