The panel discussion, A Manifesto for the Rule of Law, is the second event in the Bar of NI’s Advancing the Rule of Law series and will take place at the Inn of Court, Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast on Thursday 1 February 2024 from 4pm-6pm.

The panellists are Baroness Shami Chakrabarti CBE, CP, Professor Brice Dickson, and Fiona Doherty KC, Naomi Long MLA and John Finucane MP. The discussion will be chaired by Fiona Rutherford, chair of JUSTICE.

Bernard Brady KC, chair of the Bar of NI Rule of Law Committee, said: “The rule of law is the cornerstone of civil democracy, and a guarantor of a fair and just society. It is a preeminent obligation of government to uphold the rule of law, to ensure its protection is available to all.

“The Bar of Northern Ireland is politically neutral; our members represent private citizens, government ministers and departmental officials alike. The professional obligation is the same. A robust independent Bar is essential to securing equality before the law, and equal access to justice, without which there would be no rule of law. The Bar’s commitment to these principles are our core values, and are without reservation or exception.

“I am delighted to be partnering with JUSTICE to facilitate this important discussion at this crucial time and am looking forward to what is shaping up to be an excellent panel of experts.”

Ms Rutherford added: “After over a decade of serious erosion, is vital that Westminster redoubles its efforts to repair and renew the UK’s commitment to the rule of law. We should reject misguided calls to leave the European Convention on Human Rights. Respect for human rights is fundamental to the rule of law and the ECHR is a cornerstone of the Good Friday Agreement.

“JUSTICE are thrilled to be working with the Bar of Northern Ireland on this event, and I encourage you all to join us for what will be a fascinating discussion.”

The event is open to members of the Bar of NI and non-members. It is a free event but booking via lisa.mayes@barofni.org is essential.