Mark Garrett

Mr Garrett has served as the Law Society’s director general since January 2022, having previously worked as Eamon Gilmore’s chief of staff — during his tenure as Tánaiste and minister for foreign affairs and trade — as well as for the Competition Authority and in senior roles with Irish and multinational organisations.

Community Law & Mediation, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, was established in 1975 as Ireland’s first independent community law centre.

Over the past five decades, the organisation has evolved from a neighbourhood law centre to a national service with physical locations in Coolock and Limerick and offering new services in mediation, environmental justice and children’s law. It has played a significant role in the movement for civil legal aid in Ireland.

Each year, it assists with more than 4,700 legal and mediation matters and provides ‘know your rights’ talks and legal training to more than 1,450 people.

Rose Wall, CEO of Community Law & Mediation, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mark Garrett to the board of Community Law & Mediation.

“His extensive knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our organisation as we continue to deliver essential legal and mediation services to those who need it most; and offer new services to meet changing needs in the community.”