Human Rights and Pro Bono Practice | Our VAS Annual Conference

This event comprises a range of speakers from the judiciary, NGOs, charities, activists and advocates, all specialising in, and to the fore of, human rights law. The conference aims to explore three separate topics:

1. At what cost? The influence of funders on charitable advocacy

2. Dealing with vulnerable clients

3. 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.

---

Event Schedule

10am – Opening remarks

10.30am – At what cost? The influence of funders on advocacy Description: Charities and NGOs are heavily reliant on state funding in the carrying out of their functions, however, a recent report published by the Irish Council for Civil Liberties has highlighted that the manner in which these organisations advocate for the groups they represent may be influenced by fear of an adverse impact on this funding. This panel will discuss the ICCL report, their experiences, and any potential legal recourse these organisations may have.

11.30am – Tea & Coffee Break

12pm - Dealing with vulnerable clients Many of the individuals who engage pro bono services such as the voluntary assistance scheme are vulnerable members of society, including members of the traveller community, refugees and asylum seekers, those with mental health issues, and those experiencing homelessness. This segment explores how practitioners engage with these clients, the importance of a trauma informed approach, and the particular challenges which they face in accessing justice. The speakers are mostly drawn from under-represented and marginalised groups who can give a first-hand account of their experiences, as well as those trained and working with marginalised groups. 

1pm – Lunch

2pm - Litigation as a tool to protect and vindicate rights With the ever-changing socio-and political landscape, pro bono is an increasingly necessary vehicle through which individuals can protect and vindicate their rights. This segment looks at the growth of pro bono work, using the right to protest, which has been under increased scrutiny in recent times, as an example. This panel benefits from experience from both the North and South of the country as well as the UK. This panel will discuss human rights under threat, and possible future trends in this area.

3pm – Closing remarks

---

Speakers

• 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
• Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh KC, Matrix Chambers
• Liam Herrick, CEO of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties
• Darragh Mackin, Partner at Phoenix Law Solicitors
• Nuala Egan SC, The Bar of Ireland
• Sarah Jane Judge BL, The Bar of Ireland

This event is open to all, and in-person only. Please register your interest in this event below.

There will be 3.5 CPD Points available for this event.

---

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.