Launch of Equality Action Plan – The Bar of Ireland [Video]

The Bar of Ireland has launched its first Equality Action Plan, supported by James Browne TD, Minister of State at the Department of Justice.

The Plan sets out a series of recommended actions to build upon existing equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives at The Bar of Ireland. Through investment and implementation of appropriate supports and resources, The Bar of Ireland aims to enhance access to the profession and the retention of a diverse membership. Areas of focus include gender, race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and/or cultural or socio-economic background, among others.

To ensure accountability and transparency in its progress, the plan will be reviewed at the end of each legal year.

The five primary objectives under the Plan are:

to enhance public awareness of a positive equality, diversity and inclusion culture at the Bar;
to introduce and embedding diversity awareness training at the Bar;
to enhance access to the profession;
to support fair and equitable practice development and career progression opportunities; and
to enhance the accessibility of member services at the Bar.