There were 28,050 civil legal aid applicants in 2024, with 11,689 of them relating to international protection applications — an increase of 18 per cent on the previous year.

The Legal Aid Board’s free family mediation service assisted 2,294 couples in resolving disputes over the course of the year.

Joan Crawford, CEO of the Legal Aid Board, said: “The publication of our 2024 annual report marks a year of transformation, resilience, and renewed strategic focus for the Legal Aid Board.

“With over 28,000 applications for legal aid and advice, and nearly 2,300 new family mediation cases, our services have never been more vital.

“This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the strength of our partnerships, and our unwavering commitment to ensuring access to justice for all.

“As we move forward under the statement of strategy 2024–2026, we remain focused on innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in service delivery.

“I am proud of what we have achieved and excited for what lies ahead.”

Justice, home affairs and migration minister Jim O’Callaghan said: “The Legal Aid Board is providing a vital service in meeting the needs of the public who rely upon its legal and family mediation services in a challenging and indeed complex environment.

“A civil legal aid scheme and a Legal Aid Board that is equipped to meet the changing needs of society, is critical to ensuring access to justice for all.

“That is why I was pleased to announce in Budget 2026, an additional funding of €8 million for the Legal Aid Board to support a programme of modernisation and increased access to justice for clients of the Board.

“I look forward to the Legal Aid Board building on its strong performance which is reflected in the report being launched today.”