In April, the FLAC team was sad to say goodbye to Rachel Power, our PILA & Strategic Development Manager. Rachel joined FLAC 8 years ago as part of FLAC's newly formed, Public Interest Law project - PILA.
Rachel has played an integral role in the development of Pro Bono within Ireland as part of the FLAC and PILA team. PILA has been instrumental in nurturing a burgeoning culture of pro bono in Ireland, to the point that we have seen the appointment of two dedicated Pro Bono Associates.
Just last November, Pro Bono Pledge Ireland was launched. At the launch over 70 signatories, representing in excess of 2000 legal professionals, came together to pledge free legal services for those who need it most. Read more about the launch and the Pro Bono Pledge here.
Rachel also authored the report Challenging Injustice, Championing Change: PILA Impact Report 2009-2019 on the 10 years of PILA. You can read the report here. The report was launched at an online event where over 50 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) learnt more about how to tackle pressing social issues through accessing pro bono legal services. A recording of the event can be viewed here
Having a virtual goodbye party via zoom was a strange experience but a great opportunity to reflect on Rachel's time in FLAC and say our personal goodbyes. We wish Rachel all the best in her future career!