The New York State Bar Association and the Bar of Ireland have signed a new memorandum of understanding formalizing cooperation between the two legal communities and strengthening ties between New York and Ireland in international law and business. The agreement was signed in Manhattan during Ireland for Law’s 2026 business mission to New York.

The agreement highlights the shared common-law traditions of Ireland and the United States and reflects growing interest in Ireland as a legal and business gateway to the European Union. The accompanying program included discussions about Ireland’s courts, choice-of-law considerations, international arbitration and dispute resolution, and opportunities for American businesses operating in Europe.

Howard Fischer, who participated in a panel examining Ireland’s role as a forum for international transactions and arbitration, highlighted Ireland’s particular appeal following Brexit:

“It’s a great choice post-Brexit for a transaction with an EU connection, whether that’s GDPR or EU regulations. This is a gateway to EU law done in a common-law style.”

Fischer participated alongside representatives from the Bar of Ireland, NYSBA and others in a discussion focused on Ireland’s courts, choice-of-law provisions, international arbitration and dispute resolution.