Mrs. Justice Catherine McGuinness

Mrs. Justice Catherine McGuinness became patron of the Irish Refugee Council in June 2011.

Catherine McGuinness is a former President of the Law Reform Commission, a former judge of the Circuit Court (1994-1996), the first woman to serve on the Court, and justice of the High Court (1996-2000) and of the Supreme Court (2000-2006). In January 2012 Catherine was appointed to the Council of State by President Michael D. Higgins.

"The IRC is now a staff of 12 with additional support from interns and volunteers. It is one of just eight independent law centres and has pioneered early legal advice now taken on by others including A&L Goodbody solicitors. The IRC also has specialised support for children and young people, a drop in service for those who need information and guidance on numerous matters and is an authoritative and credible voice for those in need of international protection."
 
~ Catherine McGuinness’s address at IRC’s 21 year celebration