Catherine Ardagh

The mission will promote Ireland as a global hub for international legal services, and takes place from 8th to 10th September 2026.

Ms Ardagh, minister of state with responsibility for international law, law reform and youth justice, is joining the delegation led by Attorney General Rossa Fanning SC and which will also include Mr Justice David Barniville, President of the High Court.

The three-day itinerary features eight major events across Manhattan designed to showcase the depth, capability, and competitive advantages of the Irish legal profession to US corporations, general counsel, and law firms. Event hosts include BDO USA, Forward Global, Dechert LLP, and the Fordham University School of Law. Mission partners include the New York City Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, and a number of Ireland’s leading law firm partners and senior members of the Bar of Ireland.

The mission represents a collective push by the Irish legal sector to expand its footprint in the North American market. Prominent Irish law firms and representatives from the Bar of Ireland will promote Irish law as a vital asset for global commerce.

Ms Ardagh said: “I am looking forward to participating in Ireland for Law’s Business Mission to New York and to support this important initiative to promote Ireland’s legal sector internationally. The Government is committed to strengthening Ireland’s position as a leading international legal centre, and initiatives such as this mission play an important role in showcasing the expertise, professionalism and global outlook of our legal community.

“I look forward to engaging with business leaders and legal professionals in New York to highlight the strengths of Ireland’s legal system and to further deepen the strong economic and commercial ties between Ireland and the United States.”

Mr Kenny said: “I am delighted that Minister Ardagh will join us for the NYC Business Mission. Through initiatives like this, we are showcasing the calibre of Irish legal expertise, building strategic international relationships, and reinforcing Ireland’s reputation as a trusted place to do business.

“Our legal system is a core national asset, contributing over €6.7 billion to the Irish economy each year. As the only English-speaking common law jurisdiction in the European Union, Ireland offers a strong, stable, and internationally respected legal framework. Backed by the Government’s strategic focus on enhancing Ireland’s international competitiveness, our legal profession is uniquely positioned to support global business, attract international investment, and drive sustainable economic growth.”

Registration for all events, and details of a preferred hotel rate at Fitzpatrick’s Grand Central Hotel, are available here.