The regulator today published a six-month update on the 32 recommendations to widen access to the legal professions and increase diversity it made in 2024.

It reports on the activities of the LSRA and the professional bodies for solicitors and barristers — the Law Society of Ireland, the Honorable Society of King’s Inns and The Bar of Ireland — in implementing the recommendations.

The first progress report covers the six month period from October 2024 to March 2025 and has been submitted to justice minister Jim O’Callaghan.

Dr Brian Doherty, the LSRA’s chief executive officer, said: “This update documents the significant work that has been carried out by the LSRA and our stakeholders in advancing the reform agenda to widen and increase access to education, training and early career opportunities and to enhance diversity in the legal professions.

“This includes the establishment of a Breaking Down Barriers implementation working group which I am pleased to chair.

“I want to sincerely thank the LSRA’s stakeholders for their enthusiasm in delivering on the Breaking Down Barriers recommendations. Particular thanks go to the three professional bodies — the Law Society of Ireland, the Honorable Society of King’s Inns and The Bar of Ireland.

“I look forward to continued engagement with all stakeholders in the coming months as we work to build a more inclusive and diverse legal services sector.”