Bar of Ireland presents human rights award to navy

The Bar of Ireland has presented its inaugural Human Rights Award to the Irish Naval Service for saving thousands of lives in the Mediterranean Sea during the current migration crisis.

More than 11,500 migrants have been rescued by Irish Naval Service vessels since May 2015 as part of its humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis.

Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces Vice Admiral Mark Mellett and 35 members of the Irish Naval Service attended yesterday’s award presentation ceremony at the Law Library.

Paul McGarry SC, chairman of the Council of The Bar of Ireland, said: “The bravery shown by members of the Irish Naval Service through the course of their work in the Mediterranean Sea has been outstanding. Their contribution during what is the worst humanitarian crisis in living memory should be a source of enormous pride for every Irish person.

“We are delighted to welcome members of the Irish Naval Service to the Law Library today and to recognise their service with The Bar of Ireland’s inaugural Human Rights Award.”

The award is an initiative of the Bar’s human rights committee.

Conor Dignam, SC, chair of the human rights committee, said: “In selecting the recipient of our first Human Rights Award, we wanted to recognise service that went above and beyond the call of duty to protect and preserve fundamental human rights. The assistance provided by the members of the Irish Naval Service in search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea over the last number of months are truly honourable and are to be commended.”

Speaking on behalf of the Naval Service, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Service, Commodore Hugh Tully, said: “We are honoured to receive this award on behalf of all of the members of the Naval Service who served and are serving in the various search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea. We are proud to be able to provide this assistance on behalf of Ireland and the Irish people.”