Byrne Wallace Shields LLP hosts Minister Jim O’Callaghan TD for event to mark end of Pride Month 2026

Byrne Wallace Shields LLP welcomed the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan TD, as guest of honour at a firm wide event for staff to mark the close of Pride Month 2026 on Tuesday, 30 June 2026.

The occasion brought colleagues together to reflect on the progress made in advancing LGBTQIA+ rights in Ireland and internationally, while recognising the important work that remains.

The event formed the culmination of Byrne Wallace Shields’ Pride Month programme, which has highlighted the firm’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace. Throughout June, colleagues have engaged with a range of initiatives and events 
designed to celebrate diversity, build awareness and encourage open dialogue.

At the closing event, attendees reflected on the history of LGBTQIA+ rights in Ireland and the notable prioritisation of equality within the current legislative agenda, thanks to the efforts of Minister Jim O’Callaghan TD and his team. The Minister expanded upon his vision for the Irish Disregard Scheme, a seminal piece of legislation that was passed by the Dáil through the Criminal Justice, Civil Law and Defence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026. This landmark scheme establishes a process to nullify historic criminal convictions for consensual same-sex sexual activity prior to decriminalisation in 1993; it signifies the continued contributions of the State towards realising full equality. Byrne Wallace Shields is proud to have marked this significant development in Irish equality law, rounding off Pride Month 2026 with a reflection on taking practical steps towards progress. 

Commenting on the event, Michael Walsh, Chair of Property and Head of the Pride Committee at Byrne Wallace Shields LLP said:

“Byrne Wallace Shields LLP was honoured to welcome Minister O’Callaghan to mark the end of our pride celebrations. The discussion and reflections shared today reinforce the importance of creating a workplace where everyone feels supported, respected and able to be themselves. Pride Month is always a significant date in our calendar, but the commitment it represents extends well beyond June. As a firm, we remain focused on building an inclusive culture and continuing to play our part in promoting equality for all.”

Recent Pride Month activities at Byrne Wallace Shields LLP have included a performance by the firm’s choir, Legally Sound, a book club discussion of In Memoriam by Alice Winn, a wellbeing session focused on inclusion in sport, and participation in the annual Outlaw pre-parade Pride brunch alongside colleagues and clients. The closing event with the Minister provided an opportunity to come together and mark these collective efforts in a meaningful and celebratory way.

Byrne Wallace Shields LLP has a long-standing commitment to inclusion and diversity. Pride Month remains an important moment in the firm’s calendar to reflect, celebrate and reinforce that commitment across all areas of the business.