The Honorable Society of King’s Inns had the honour of welcoming President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, to a formal Dining on Friday 24th  October 2025 marking an historic occasion as the President attends in his capacity as an Honorary Bencher for the first time.

The evening also celebrated the 250th anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’Connell, the Liberator, a distinguished graduate of King’s Inns whose vision helped shape modern Ireland.

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The tradition of Dining, one of the Society’s oldest and most distinguished customs, brings together Benchers, members of the Bar, and students of law to uphold the collegiate traditions and values of King’s Inns. The presence of President Higgins at this event underscores both the continuity of that tradition and the enduring influence of King’s Inns in Ireland’s legal, political, and civic life.

Founded in 1541, King’s Inns is Ireland’s oldest institution of legal education and one of the most historic professional bodies in the State. Its Dining Hall and grounds have for centuries hosted generations of Ireland’s legal and political leaders, providing a forum where law, learning, and service to the public good are celebrated.

This special Dining in honour of Daniel O’Connell (1775–1847) pays tribute to his legacy as a lawyer and parliamentarian who pursued peaceful reform and championed the principles of justice and equality that remain foundational to Ireland today. 

Guest Speaker: Professor Patrick Geoghegan presented his talk on “Our Liberator – Daniel O’Connell, the law and his legacy”. Professor Geoghegan is an expert on the British-Irish relationship in the late-eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, as well as on the competing themes of constitutional nationalism and republicanism.