Prof Imelda Maher and Prof Gavin Barrett books launched at MoLI

Professor Gavin Barrett and Professor Imelda Maher with Ruairí Quinn in Newman House

On Wednesday November 13 2019, members of the UCD Oireachtas Affinity Group, friends and academics gathered in Newman House to celebrate the publication of two books by Professor Gavin Barrett and Professor Imelda Maher, both of UCD Sutherland School of Law.

Professor Colin Scott, Principal of the College of Social Sciences and Law, acted as MC on the evening for the discussion between Professor Gavin Barrett, Head of Teaching and Learning in UCD Sutherland School of Law and Professor Imelda Maher, Dean of Law, on the topic of parliaments and the EU.

Discussing his book “The Evolving Role of National Parliaments in the EU - Ireland as a case study”, Professor Barrett highlighted how he examines the relationship between the Oireachtas and the European Union, as well as the evolution in national parliaments' roles, the reasons for change and the challenges that must be faced in making further progress. Professor Maher introduced her book “The Transformation of EU Treaty Making - The rise of parliaments, referendums and courts since 1950.” by explaining the process undertaken by herself and her co-author Dermot Hodson in completing the work, including studying a large number of treaties and constitutions from across Europe to explore how and why parliaments, the people and courts have entered a domain once dominated by governments.

UCD alumnus and former government minister Ruairí Quinn joined the panel as a discussant and provided valuable commentary on the wider context of Europe as a political entity. A lively discussion followed, joined by members of the audience.

The session was followed by refreshments and a private tour of the exhibition space in the Museum of Literature, Ireland.

Ruairí Quinn speaking at the Book Launch in Newman House

L-R Tim Hayes, Maria Fitzsimons, Heidi Lougheed & Leo Bollins at the Book Launch & Discussion at MoLi

L-R Prof Maher in conversation with Emer Hunt and Dr Richard Collins of Sutherland School of Law