The Bar of Ireland is the representative body for the barristers’ profession in Ireland and is governed by the Constitution of The Bar of Ireland. Its role is:
- to consider, report upon and make representations as it considers necessary in all matters affecting the profession;
- to play a key role in the conduct and arrangement of the business of the profession;
- to control and regulate the professional conduct of the members of the Bar; and,
- to secure and protect the interests of the profession.
The business of the Council is conducted by six permanent committees and such other committees as the Council may, from time to time, establish.
The Bar of Ireland represents members on a wide variety of Government and non-Government agencies including the Courts Service, Judicial Appointments Board and many other Committees and Commissions established by various Government Ministers. The Bar of Ireland also works in conjunction with agencies such as the Courts Service, the Office of the Attorney General, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Chief State Solicitor’s Office, the Department of Justice and the Legal Aid Board.
The Bar of Ireland regularly makes submissions and drafts reports on important topics within the legal sector and also represents the profession on any changes or matters affecting the profession, as may occur from time to time.