The firm announced yesterday that it is to more than double its Dublin office space as more insurers look to relocate to Dublin.

Kennedys will move from its current Dublin 1 location in November into a new 13,300 sq ft office at Bloodstone Building on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2.

Since the UK’s vote to leave the European Union, a number of insurers ― including QBE, Admiral and Beazley ― have signalled their interest in the Dublin market as a possible location for their European operations in the event of losing “passporting” rights that allow UK insurers to trade in Europe without the need for locally regulated entities.

Kennedys Dublin office was established in 2011, following a merger with long-standing Dublin associate, O’Hare O’Connor Walshe. The office, which is led by partner Philip O’Connor, currently has almost 50 staff, including nine partners and provides a full range of dispute resolution, marine, property, insolvency, commercial and funds services.

Earlier this year the Dublin office hired a number of partners including insurance disputes specialist Daniel Scanlon from Maples & Calderand insurance liability expert Marian Brennan from Corrigan & Corrigan.

Kennedys also recently launched a local Women Insurers Network. Targeted at claims and underwriting professionals, and those that work in-house with a risk management, claims or legal interest, the Network is designed to facilitate knowledge sharing, best practice and social networking. It is also aimed at raising awareness of the contribution professional women make to the Irish insurance industry. Three events have been hosted to date, with further events being planned.

Mr O’Connor said: “This move will give our clients even better facilities in the heart of the city. It’s a tremendously exciting time to be working in this market and this move ensures we’re well placed to capitalise on any new opportunities.”

Nick Thomas, senior partner of Kennedys (pictured) added: “Our growth is always predicated on client need and with insurers looking to Dublin in the wake of Brexit, it makes perfect sense for us to ensure we are equipped to work with them wherever in the world they need our help. We will be looking to expand our Dublin office further over the coming months with senior hires.”

Ahead of the EU Referendum, the firm commissioned a report, Brexit: the insurers speak, on the potential impact of Brexit, it also sought the in-depth views of 20 senior industry executives. The report, released in early June, predicted that businesses could start to relocate from the UK within one to two years of an ‘out’ vote.