AT THE MARGINS: Three Priority Areas Through a Human Rights Lens

Date: Saturday 10th May, 2025

Start Time: 9.30am

Finish Time: 2.30pm

AT THE MARGINS: Three priority areas through a Human Rights Lens

The conference will consist of three panels that will discuss topical human rights issues and their intersection with the law.

9:30: Opening Address

9:45 - 10:55: Panel 1

Housing and Homelessness in Focus: Rights, Challenges and Solutions

Chaired by The Hon. Ms. Justice Sara Phelan

🔹 Hilary Hogan BL

🔹Tara O’Leary Irish Barrister, Cornerstone Chambers, London, specialist in public law and social housing

🔹Kate Heffernan, Solicitor, Mercy Law Resource Centre

10:55 - 11:10: Tea & Coffee Break

11:10 - 12:10 : Panel 2

Deprivation of Liberty | Developments in the law on imprisonment and involuntary admission to hospital

Chaired by the Hon. Ms. Justice Tara Burns

🔹Dr Mary Rogan

🔹Dr Ciaran Craven SC

🔹Saoirse Brady, Executive Director, Irish Penal Reform Trust

12:15 - 12:45: Lunch Break

Panel 3

12:45 - 13:45: Violence against Women | Contemporary issues in tackling gender based violence

Chaired by The Hon. Ms. Justice Nuala Jackson

🔹Prof. Caroline Fennell, Chair of Cuan (DSGBV) Agency

🔹Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC, Doughty Street Chambers

🔹Jane McGowan BL

🔹Sarah Benson, CEO Women’s Aid


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.