The new president of the Law Society of Northern Ireland has said she is looking forward to representing solicitors during “a period of great change”, with Brexit on the near horizon.

Experienced family law solicitor Eileen Ewing, who has been in practice in Belfast for over thirty years, will lead the Society in 2017/18.

Commenting on her appointment, she said: “I’m honoured to accept the Office of President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland and I am eagerly anticipating my new role.

“Having served as a Council member of the Law Society since 2009, I fully understand the important role the Society plays in regulating and representing the interests of solicitors and clients, as well as the invaluable contribution the solicitor profession makes to the local community and business throughout Northern Ireland.”

Ms Ewing, who was born in Oxford, added: “As I take up my Presidency I do so during a period of great change and uncertainty not least regarding the impact of Brexit. As President of the Law Society, my priority will be to ensure that the Law Society of Northern Ireland remains at the very forefront of justice issues in Northern Ireland working on behalf of our members and in the public interest.

“As President, I will continue to promote the legal services which our members offer and in particular to local businesses who will require legal advice.

“I remain fully committed to continuing the work of the Law Society in building a more inclusive, open and diverse solicitor profession reflective of the needs of clients and responsive to an ever-changing legal landscape.”

She will be supported by her wider presidential and chief executive team of senior vice president Ian Huddleston, junior vice president Suzanne Rice and chief executive Alan Hunter.

Her chosen Presidential charity of the year is Barnardo’s.