The Council of The Bar of Ireland has unveiled its new strategic plan FutureBar: 2024-2027 as it looks to strengthen the profession and address the evolving challenges of the legal landscape over the next three years.
The challenges facing the barrister profession are ever-changing. An increase in regulatory activity, rapid advancements in technology and an unpredictable political climate reflect the need for a strategic plan that will support the Bar’s ability to adapt with agility and continue to uphold the highest standards of our profession.
In its comprehensive plan published earlier this month, the Council of The Bar of Ireland outlined its objectives for the future of the independent referral bar and the profession in which it serves under three key pillars: Optimised Practice, Connected Community and Expert Knowledge. Combined with a strategic focus on enablers including the skillsets of staff and financial resourcing, FutureBar is a declaration of the Bar’s commitment to lead with confidence, to serve with integrity, and stand as advocates for justice and the rule of law.
FutureBar | Our Priorities for Success
1. Optimise Practice, Support and Development: Optimising our members’ practice through dedicated supports and use of our resources
Our commitment to our members is a main driver Over the next three years, we will focus on optimising our members’ practice by providing robust support systems to enable barristers to thrive professionally while maintaining the flexibility needed to navigate the complexities of technology and evolving client needs.
2. Connected Community: Facilitate a connected community, both of members and with the wider context of external environments
The Bar is committed to continuing to build a connected community that fosters relationships within the organisation, the people we serve and the broader social, environmental and political spheres in which we operate. We will prioritise
3. Expert Knowledge: Continue to enhance our members’ knowledge development through existing and new approaches
The success of our members is strongly connected to having fast access to legal information, understanding the implications of legal developments as they arise, and developing a proficiency in the technology to assist them in delivering professional services. Moving forward, we will continue to enhance our members’ knowledge development through existing and new approaches.
Ensuring Engagement | Reporting on our work
The Bar of Ireland will provide regular updates on the progress of the strategic plan through:
- Publication of Annual Reports to members;
- Chair communications to members; and,
- CEO quarterly reports to Council.