The students were participants in the funds law course delivered by Matheson as part of Maynooth University’s LLM programme.

Cathal Moloney from Thurles, Co Tipperary and Dylan Vaughan from Delvin, Co Westmeath were each awarded six-month internships in Matheson’s asset management and investment funds department, based on their results and a competitive interview process.

Jade Van Standen from Cavan was awarded a legal writing prize, having received the highest grade for her written assignment forming part of the course assessment.

Tara Doyle, chairperson of Matheson and head of the firm’s asset management and investment funds group, said: “Matheson is delighted to recognise the achievements of Cathal, Dylan and Jade in the funds law course.

“International financial services represents a vibrant sector of the Irish economy, and the Matheson funds law internships offer these Maynooth University graduates an accelerated access to this area.

“To preserve and enhance Ireland’s position as an international leader in financial services and as a leading international fund domicile, and to ensure Ireland’s ongoing global competitiveness, our third level programmes must provide our graduates with the necessary specialist skills, training and mentoring to pursue careers in this space.”

Matheson first partnered with Maynooth University School of Law and Criminology in 2013 to deliver the first specialised funds law course to be taught at an Irish university. Each week, Maynooth students attend lectures in Matheson’s offices.

This year, the course included an emphasis on sustainable finance and ESG investing, examining the opportunities and challenges for the global funds industry in supporting the transition to a net zero economy.

Professor Michael Doherty, head of Maynooth University School of Law and Criminology, said: “‘The collaboration with Matheson has always been one of the most important for the School. It is a clear example of what Law at Maynooth is all about - innovation, dynamic industry partnerships, and opportunities for our students.

“We are eternally grateful to Matheson, and to Liz, Tara and Brónagh for their support, and huge commitment, to the course, and look forward to the next decade! Well done to Cathal, Dylan and Jade!”