Learn about this unique MCLE qualifying opportunity to travel to Ireland September 2024. Richard Pena cordially invites you to join him on the customized and unique journey to Ireland. Visit Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and marvel at the beauty of the Emerald Isle and warm welcome of its people.

Richard writes "I hope you will consider coming with us on this unforgettable delegation to Ireland. Our 2023 delegation was a huge success, so much so that we are returning to further explore the Rule of Law in Ireland.

The mission of this program is to explore the role of law, music and culture in the multiple internal conflicts experienced by the Irish people and how music emerged as an agent for social change. We will also be meeting with local lawyers and others involved in the legal system and will explore and observe the commonalities and differences of the Northern Ireland (UK) system and that of the Republic of Ireland. Emphasis will be placed on the future of Ireland (One Ireland) as we witness the beautiful Emerald Isle. Topics may include the Good Friday Agreement, Brexit, Conflict Resolution and Mediation or other topics of particular interest to the group as well as how music has been used to assist social change

Professional Connections & Peer Engagement:

✓ The program will be eligible for MCLE accreditation.

✓ Program will explore the role law and music played in Ireland’s conflicts.

✓ Meaningful interaction and collaboration between program participants and law professionals in Ireland will include meetings local solicitors like former senior counsel and mediator Turlough O’Donnell, SC to share the history, successes, failures, and current modern-day challenges that face the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. Topics will be further defined around the interests of the group. He has an expertise in mediation and extensive practice in the Superior Courts focused on civil litigation.

✓ Meet with faculty at local university like University College Cork and/or University of Galway.

✓ Talk with Cal McCarthy, a local historian and expert on Michael Collins and Irish patriot and revolutionary hero about his involvement in the 1916 rebellion, War of Independence, Treaty talks and Civil War.

✓ Visit with nuns Martina Purdy and Elaine Kelly a former barrister and reporter involved in the Peace Talks

✓ Accompanying guest program – guests will enjoy privately guided cultural activities.

Cultural Immersion & Music Traditions:

✓ Take part in a panel session with loyalist and republic music communities including a former internee turned Republic councilor who is also a traditional musician. See a demonstration of marching band music with discussion about Loyalist music traditions at the Ulster Scots Center.

✓ Meet with Christy and Sheila at the Doolin Music House for a fun music and storytelling session.

✓ Explore the beautiful landscapes of Ireland including iconic locations like the Cliffs of Moher, the Book of Kells at Trinity College, and the Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum.

✓ Learn about the souths of history during a visit to the Brú Ború Heritage Center.

✓ Enjoy a walking tour of Drogheda with a guide from the local homeless community of Galway.