Legal rights group FLAC helps launch Irish-language advice service

An Irish-language legal advice service has been launched by Conradh na Gaeilge in association with its legal branch in the south, Craobh na gCeithre Cúirteanna, and FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres).

At a launch event in the Four Courts in Dublin yesterday, Conradh na Gaeilge unveiled an Irish language translation of one of FLAC’s most popular free legal information leaflets, Wills & Intestacy.

Uachtanna agus Díthiomnacht is available free of charge from Irish-language free legal advice clinics and online, and is the first in a series of FLAC leaflets that Conradh na Gaeilge hopes to provide in Irish.

Conradh na Gaeilge operates a monthly legal advice clinic in Irish in Belfast, and services are now available through Irish by appointment in FLAC centres in Cork, Donegal, Dublin, and Galway every month.

Cóilín Ó Cearbhaill, president of Conradh na Gaeilge, said: “Conradh na Gaeilge is committed to facilitating access to justice through Irish with An tSeirbhís Saor-Chomhairle Dlí.

“Irish speakers across Ireland can exercise their right to access justice through the Irish language, starting with a free legal consultation through Irish with a FLAC volunteer lawyer.”

Eilis Barry, CEO of FLAC, said: “As an independent human rights organisation committed to increasing access to justice for all in Ireland, FLAC is delighted to be part of an initiative that is enhancing people’s ability to engage with the law.

“We see this leaflet and Irish-language service, An tSeirbhís Saor-Chomhairle Dlí Náisiúnta, as an important step from all involved towards improving access to justice and realising rights.”

Zsé Varga, FLAC’s volunteer and centres manager, added: “FLAC appreciates and acknowledges the commitment of the volunteer lawyers who are providing this important service to the Irish-speaking community across Ireland.”