McAleese scholarship to help students develop legal career

Former president Mary McAleese has launched a college scholarship in her name to help people take the first step towards a legal career.

Mrs McAleese visited Griffith College in Dublin yesterday to announce the Mary McAleese Legal Executive Scholarship Scheme.

It will enable two people — one studying at either Griffith College in Dublin or Cork — to be enrolled on its diploma in legal studies and practice programme.

The scholarship, which covers all the course fees, is targeted at those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to embark on such a course.

Applicants may apply for funding on the grounds of merit and financial need.

Mrs McAleese, who was awarded a distinguished fellowship by Griffith College three years ago, held the position of Reid Professor of Criminal Law, Criminology, and Penology in Trinity College Dublin, as well as the post of director of the Institute of Professional Legal Studies in Belfast, before becoming president.

The scholarship was developed in consultation with the Irish Institute of Legal Executives, the legal industry, graduates, and members of the Griffith College legal academic team.

It is the only legal executive course in Ireland to be accredited by the Irish Institute of Legal Executives.

Griffith College president Diarmuid Hegarty said they worked hard to develop it.

“It will arm students with the most up-to-date theory and practical skill-set to be an asset to any legal practitioner,” he said.

The course will run at Griffith College, in Dublin and Cork, three evenings a week from 6pm to 10pm, from October to May.

The programme can be undertaken in formal lectures or by online learning and there is also a two-year option for part-time students.

* More details from www.gcc.ie/law or www.gcd.ie.