The Gazette 1976

GAZETTE

SEP T EM BER 1976

11.7 F.L.A.C. suggested that a leaflet might be sponsored by the Society in relation to flats and, subject to the Society's prior approval, this is now in the course of being done. The question of the Registration of Wills, and Professional Privilege under the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 was referred to the Committee and the former will be brought before the meeting of the Bar Associations to be held on the 11th November next, whilst the latter, as the result of a report from an ad hoc committee, will be considered further with a view to deciding whether representation should be made to the Department of Justice or not. 11.8 This year the Committee was involved in receptions which were held to launch the publication of J. C. W. Wylie's excellent book on Land Law and Mr. Robert Johnston's equally excellent book on Wealth Tax. Judge Kenny spoke, when the former publication was launched, and the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners addressed the meeting to launch Mr. Robert Johnston's book. 11.9 During the year the Committee had the distinct feeling that the media was approaching the Law Society for comment more than ever before, which is part of what a Public Relations exercise is all about. The profession then obtains the first-hand opportunity to represent its viewpoint before the issue is clouded by comment which takes a damaging headline without any reference whatsoever to the views of the profession. In no small way has this goal been assisted by the voluntary donation by a number of the members of the Society of their spare time to take a Radio and Television Course. R.T.E. has been informed that there is a panel of speakers who will be available to discuss aspects of the law and matters concerning the profession as they arise, and the authority is now aware that if they approach the secretariat, and if the matter is of concern to the profession, that they will get a response. 11.10 Having been reasonably optimistic in this report, it is important to emphasise that there is no cause for complacency, and that public relations is an on-going operation, and that the goodwill that is built up with the media must not be allowed to falter because of failure to follow up and renew satisfactory contacts that have been made with persons who when they hear the profession's point of view find that the Law Society is indeed a responsible body, with highly convincing arguments, and is, therefore, at all times worthy of being heard. 11.11 I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the members of this Committee who devoted many hours and splendid dedication to the work which came before us during the year.

12.1 Members will remember that last year when reporting on the commencement of work at the Kings Hospital School, the hope was expressed that the first stage of the development would be com- pleted within eighteen months. In fact it has been completed within twelve months and provided the requisite number of telephone lines are made available, it is hoped that the administrative section of the Society will be in occupation of the building by Christmas. 12.2 Work has commenced on Stage Two of the development which comprises the South wing of the huilding. It is hoped that the work here will proceed as rapidly as on Stage One, since it is of this section of the building that the greatest use will be made by both members and students. 12.3 The Committee has during the year made the fullest possible use of the Solicitors' Buildings, both for Consultation and Arbitration rooms. It is intended to continue to make available to members these facilities for which there appears to be such a demand. 12.4 Committee members have again shown their awareness of the importance of the work to be done for the Society, by their diligent attendance at the meetings called during the year.

PREMISES COMM I T T EE

Moya Quinlan,

Chairman

Joseph L. Dundon Thomas Jackson William D. McEvoy Ernest J. Margetson Patrick F. O'Donnell Peter D. M. Prentice

Mrs. Moya

Quintan,

Chairman

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