About Us
"Governments in a dynamic and fast changing world should ensure that the laws are kept under constant review and are regularly and systematically reformed” - Declan Costello TD (Dáil Debates on Law Reform Commission Bill 1975)
Who we are
The Law Reform Commission is an independent statutory body established under the Law Reform Commission Act 1975. Our role is to keep the law under review and recommend reforms to ensure it is clear, modern, and fair. Law reform includes:
- the development of law
- its codification (including its simplification and modernisation), and
- the revision and consolidation of statute law.
What We Do
We research and review laws, consult widely, and publish reports with recommendations for change. Our work is guided by:
- Programmes of Law Reform approved by Government and laid before the Oireachtas.
- Requests from the Attorney General on specific areas of law.
Law reform is an inclusive process. We consult widely through papers, seminars, and public submissions to ensure diverse perspectives shape our recommendations.
The Commission’s work also involves making legislation more accessible to the public. The Commission produces a number of access to legislation products.
Measure our impact
Our impact is measured not only by the reports we produce but also by how they influence legislation with around 70% of our recommendations being implemented.
We also aim to educate and engage the public, improve access to legislation, and promote transparency. We are conscious of the importance of the number and range of stakeholders consulted about our work. Visibility through judicial, academic, and media engagement also assists our work in contributing to our aims of developing and reforming aspects of the laws of Ireland to ensure they are equitable, modern, fair and efficient.
Programmes of Law Reform
Our Programmes of Law Reform are the main way we fulfil our statutory mandate to keep the law under review and recommend reforms. Each Programme is prepared by the Commission, approved by Government, and placed before the Houses of the Oireachtas under the Law Reform Commission Act 1975.
To date, we have prepared four completed Programmes of Law Reform, and we are currently working on our Fifth Programme.
- Current Projects: See our Current Projects.
- Completed Projects: Explore our work through our Publications.
We also published consultation papers on topics such as contempt of court, offences involving the administration of justice, and improving online access to legislation.
Governance, Policies & FOI
Ensuring good governance across the organisation is a key responsibility for the Commission. The Law Reform Commission was established by the Law Reform Commission Act 1975, and as such our mandate is provided for by law.
The organisation adheres to the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and is informed in its design and development of strategy by developments across the civil and public service, particularly the Civil Service Renewal Strategy 2030.
