The association, which welcomes solicitors, barristers, academics and law students in London with an affinity to the island of Ireland, has over 800 members.

Faced with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the association last year ran a series of webinars for members – but hopes to resume in-person events early this year.

It also saw strong demand in 2021 for its relaunched mentoring programme, which focused on providing mentorship opportunities for under-represented groups.

Mr Glover, of Fieldfisher, and Mr Hardstaff, of BCL Solicitors LLP, are joined on the new committee by secretary India Fahy of Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner and treasurer Kerri McGuigan of Peters and Peters, as well as eight ordinary members:

• Gerald Byrne (Brown Rudnick)
• Mark McCloskey (Debevoise & Plimpton)
• Jonathan Lyness (Forsters LLP)
• Claire Nevin (Future Pupil Barrister, Francis Taylor Building)
• Eorann O’Connor (Future Pupil Barrister)
• Tomas McGarvey (2 Bedford Row)
• Michael Walker (Mishcon de Reya)
• John Curtin (Schillings)

Mr Glover, the longest-serving member of LILA’s committee, said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been given the opportunity to spend another term as co-chair of LILA, an organisation that I have been deeply involved with for a number of years.

“I am especially looking forward to expanding Fieldfisher’s relationship with LILA and to continuing to provide networking and educational opportunities to our growing membership, hopefully resuming our full programme of in-person events in the near future.”

Mr Hardstaff told Irish Legal News: “2021 was a difficult year for everyone – although, despite the challenges posed, LILA has continued to flourish and provide an important resource to its growing and increasingly diverse membership.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to serve as co-chair for another year with Will Glover, and am looking forward to all that 2022 has to offer with our fantastic new committee. I would like to express our sincere thanks to all our members, contributors, and sponsors.”