Human Rights and Pro Bono Practice | VAS Conference to highlight key issues in charitable advocacy

27 September 2024

4 October 2024 | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

3.5 CPD Points

The Bar of Ireland’s Voluntary Assistance Scheme is pleased to announce its annual conference, set to take place on Friday, 4 October 2024, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the Atrium of the Distillery Building, located at 145-151 Church St.

Speakers at the event will include a range of esteemed legal professionals from the judiciary, NGOs, charities, activists and advocates specialising in human rights law, including The Hon Mr Justice Gerard Hogan of the Supreme Court, The Hon Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty of the High Court, The Hon Mr Justice David Scoffield of the Northern Ireland High Court, Darragh Mackin, Partner at Phoenix Law Solicitors, Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh KC, Liam Herrick of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties and members of The Bar of Ireland Nuala Egan SC and Sarah Jane Judge BL.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with three separate topics including the influence of funders on charitable advocacy, working with vulnerable clients and utilising litigation as a tool to protect and vindicate rights. Each of these topics are particularly relevant to practitioners and those working in the human rights sector at present and it is hoped that the highly experienced panels will offer insight into the present state of each, as well as future trends.

Speaking ahead of the event, Gemma McLoughlin-Burke BL, Chair of The Bar of Ireland’s Voluntary Assistance Scheme, said,

This year’s conference brings vital attention to the evolving role of pro bono legal services in Ireland, particularly as they intersect with human rights law. The discussions around the influence of funders on charitable advocacy, effective engagement with marginalised groups, and the use of litigation as a tool to protect and vindicate rights, highlight the essential work being done by legal professionals in advancing social justice.

Pro bono work is not only about access to justice—it is about ensuring that the most vulnerable in our society have a voice, and that their rights are defended with the full strength of the law.


Event Details

  • Date: 4 October
  • Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
  • Where: Atrium, Distillery Building, 145-151 Church St

Speakers



Accessibility Requirements: At the Bar of Ireland we wish for our events to be as welcoming, accessible and inclusive for all. Please provide us if comfortable with any accessibility related considerations so that we can endeavour to ensure a barrier free experience during the event. Email events@lawlibrary.ie to discuss your needs.