With data protection and privacy looming large for Irish businesses ahead of the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) next year, the firm is seeking ‘Bold Ideas’ to encourage companies to choose Ireland for their data regulation requirements.

At the launch, A&L Goodbody also announced its intention to recruit over 30 graduate positions over the coming months as part of its Trainee Solicitor Recruitment Programme.

John Whelan, head of its international technology practice, said: “This is an exciting time for Ireland as companies prepare for the introduction of GDPR and the ‘one-stop-shop system’ on 25 May 2018.

“We are asking students to come up with a Bold Idea to see what Ireland can do to make itself a better place for regulation, and a jurisdiction of choice for multi-nationals considering their European data privacy obligations and requirements.

“We want students to think creatively, building their Bold Idea on Ireland’s reputation for attracting foreign direct investment.”

Last year’s winner, University of Limerick student Sarah McCarthy, said: “Winning the competition has been absolutely fantastic. I’ve just finished a summer internship with A&L Goodbody where I gained great, real-world skills. I used my cash prize to help with college fees and was able to give a donation to a charity of my choice. Presenting my idea to the judges was a great experience too. It’s really easy to enter and I would encourage anyone from any background to do so. Just make sure your idea is innovative and well-researched.”

The first prize winner of the competition will receive €4,000 in cash and a summer internship at A&L Goodbody’s head office in Dublin. The firm will also make a cash donation on the winner’s behalf to a charity of their choice. Runners up will each receive an iPad mini. Members of the public will also be invited to vote for their favourite Bold Ideas submission, by visiting the firm’s Trainee and Intern Facebook page.

Judges include Mr Whelan; Sarah Lennon, legal counsel in Google; and Jonathan Newman SC. The deadline is Friday 6 November and the winner will be announced on Thursday 30 November. For more information or to apply visit A&L Goodbody’s website.