I am a solicitor with over 30 years’ experience and currently UK General Counsel for Bank of Ireland UK having joined the Bank in 2003. I am part of the Bank’s Executive Management team. Previously, I was a solicitor and then Partner in a London City firm.
Born in Dublin, I moved to England with my parents in 1970. My father was the co-founder and editor of the Irish Post newspaper, a voice for the Irish community in Britain particularly during the Troubles. In 1973, he played a key role in establishing the Federation of Irish Societies, now Irish in Britain. My mother was the daughter of a former trade unionist and Labour TD. Politics and the many deep concerns impacting the Irish in Britain were regularly discussed during my formative years.
Since 2009, I have been an Advisory Committee member of the Irish Youth Foundation UK, a charity dedicated to supporting disadvantaged Irish youth. The annual consideration of grant applications also helps to ensure a current understanding of key issues impacting the Irish community in Britain.
I am married with two young adult children of mixed race heritage who help to remind me of the on-going need to instil confidence in identity and sense of belonging in our ever evolving Irish community in Britain and of the need to listen to fresh perspectives.
I am committed to the Irish in Britain’s purpose and values and look forward to being able to add my voice and efforts to its on-going mission and essential campaigns.