McCann FitzGerald LLP > Dublin, Ireland > Firm Profile
McCann FitzGerald LLP Offices
RIVERSIDE ONE
SIR JOHN ROGERSON'S QUAY
DUBLIN 2
Ireland
McCann FitzGerald LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Ireland > Asset finance Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has an excellent track record in the aviation finance and leasing arenas. With eight partners in its ranks, the practice is instructed in a wide spectrum of matters, ranging from the establishment of aviation platforms in Ireland to capital markets, syndicated financings, leasings, sale and leaseback transactions, corporate reorganisations and restructurings. Catherine Deane is a doyenne of the aviation finance market; finance practice head Georgina O’Riordan, Hilary Marren, Joe Fay and Colm Fanning are established practitioners in the space. Richard Gill, Laura Deignan and Ian Payne are also highly regarded names in the department.Practice head(s):
Catherine Deane; Joe Fay; Hilary Marren; Georgina O’Riordan; Richard Gill; Colm Fanning; Laura Deignan; Ian Payne
Other key lawyers:
Kate Clancy
Testimonials
‘Excellent, dedicated team with vast experience and capability offering great value compared to London or NY rates.’
‘Hilary Marren for the depth of experience and calmness under the pressure of the largest transactions. Joe Fay for his technical expertise.’
‘I have worked with the team at McCann Fitzgerald for many years across many positions. McCann Fitzgerald are exceptional at what they do and I have had no problem in recommending this firm to anyone seeking to retain Irish counsel. ’
‘My point of contact at McCann Fitzgerald is Richard Gill. Richard is an extremely approachable person who handles his work in a professional manner and can meet our often short deadlines. ’
‘Domain knowledge, customer and transaction focused makes the McCann’s team unique in their ability to manage and close transactions. ’
‘Ability to manage and close the transaction efficiently. Efficient in producing and turning the documents, thorough understanding of the deal points and willingness to provide direction to the client, to make its happen. Also have to recognise their customer focus and willingness to be available.’
‘Laura in particular is very responsive, great communication, she is simply fantastic. The team led by Catherine Deane, Georgina O’Riordan, Laura Deignan and Ian Payne is technically excellent.’
‘Laura Deignan is a dedicated, commercial, pragmatic lawyer. She is thorough and sharp with a calming presence. She is an asset to every deal. Ian Payne knows his stuff and is all over every detail. One to watch.’
Key clients
Abelo Capital Aviation Management Limited
AerCap
AerDragon Aviation Partners Limited
AerSale Inc.
Aircastle Advisor LLC
Altavair
Altitude Investors DACf
Apollo Global Management
ASL Aviation
AV Air Finance
Avia Solutions Group (ASG) PLC
Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi
BBAM Aviation Services Limited
BOC Aviation Leasing
Calliston GmbH & Co. Beteiligungs KG
Cavic Aviation Leasing (Ireland) Co. DAC
CDB Aviation Leasing
Challey Limited
CHC Group LLC
CIAF Leasing
Credit Agricole
Delaware Life Insurance Company
Deutsche Bank AG
Development Bank of Singapore Ltd
DNB Bank ASA
Doric Asset Finance GmbH & Co. KG
DVB Bank SE
Dynam Japan Holding Holdings Co., Ltd
EAVF II Aircraft Holdings Limited
EMP Aviation Ireland Limited
Fexco
FGL Aircraft Ireland (FUYO)
Fly Leasing Limited
FPG Amentum
Genesis Aircraft Services Limited
Guardian Holdings Limited
ING Bank N.V., Singapore Branch
Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Limited
JP Lease Products & Services Co., Ltd.
KKR Altitude Holdings L.P.
Magnetar Capital
MUFG Bank, Ltd
NGF Overseas Aircraft Limited
Nordic Aviation Capital
Odeon International Holding B.V.
ORIX Aviation Systems Limited
Pembroke Capital/Standard Chartered Bank
Rockton AB
SAIC Holdings Limited
SAS
SATO Aviation Capital
Security Benefits Life Insurance Company
Sierra Echo Aircraft Leasing Limited
Sirius Aviation Capital Holdings Limited
Sky Aero Management Limited
Skyworks Leasing (Ireland) Limited
SMBC Aviation Capital
SolÉir Aviation Capital
ST Aerospace Resources Pte. Ltd
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
TATA SIA Airlines Limited (operating as Vistara)
Titan Aviation
Trustmark National Bank
UMBF Trust and Agency Services (Ireland) Limited
Viva Aerobus
Vueling Airlines, S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised AerCap on its $1bn offering of 5.750% senior unsecured notes due 2028.
- Advised ORIX in connection with its acquisition of the entire share capital of SORA Airlease DAC, previously a joint venture company owned by ORIX and Merx Aviation Finance Assets Ireland Limited.
- Advised Sky Leasing on the Irish law aspects of its sale of Sky Fund I Irish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries to Dubai Aerospace Capital.
Ireland > Banking and finance Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP's wide-ranging banking and finance practice takes in multi-layered financings, restructurings, and real estate and development finance matters, as well as assisting alternative lenders with entering into the Irish market. The firm continues to handle a high volume of fund finance matters, and has an expanding presence in the financial services regulatory sphere. The department has also seen a steady growth of work pertaining to ESG and sustainability-linked finance. Niall Powderly leads the corporate banking team, and has an excellent track record in advising pillar banks and international lenders on big-ticket financings. Josh Hogan leads the financial services regulatory group; Eamon de Valera focuses on fund finance and social and affordable housing financing matters; Philip Murphy has extensive experience in advising on hotel and development financings; and Stuart McCarron is an expert in real estate finance. Niall McDowell and Aidan Gleeson are singled out for their contributions.Practice head(s):
Niall Powderly; Josh Hogan
Other key lawyers:
Eamon de Valera; Philip Murphy; Stuart McCarron; Tom Dane; Niall McDowell; Aidan Gleeson; Judith Lawless; James Fitzgerald
Testimonials
‘The Banking & Finance team at McCann Fitzgerald are an engaged and highly functioning team that prioritise client needs over anything else. Their desire to provide the best outcome for their clients is a key driving force of their successes. ’
‘The firm’s focus on putting clients needs first is driven from the individual partners and ethos of the firm. Niall McDowell has forged great relationships with both lenders and borrowers and can seamlessly work across both sides whilst still retaining integrity and professionalism. ’
‘Tom Dane and Philip Murphy are both excellent and well valued legal experts for our firm.’
‘Eamon de Valera is a knowledgeable and insightful lawyer who can cut to the core of an issue and using his vast experience, procure a solution. Aidan Gleeson is an excellent communicator who delivers exceptional service across complex transactions coordinating multiple parties.’
‘Judith Lawless is a highly impressive lawyer. Her knowledge of the subject matter is boundless and her response times are excellent.’
‘Josh Hogan (Partner) and his colleague James Fitzgerald (Senior Associate): Josh is exceptional in his knowledge of the Regulatory considerations for our business. He is always professional, prompt, and solution orientated in any matters we take to him in this area. James is a strong subject matter expert and again professional engaging and always available to take calls even on short notice. Very client focused.’
‘Niall McDowell is our primary contact in the banking team. Niall is vital to our business and is viewed by senior management as a valuable extension of our team. He has an incredible, instinctive knowledge of our business needs and the national and international banking markets and consistently delivers without fuss. A low key, consistent high achiever. Niall has exceptional emotional intelligence and uses his power with people to get deals across the line. This is the banking lawyer that you want on your side in any manner of banking transaction. ’
‘Aidan Gleeson is a stand out individual within MCF who is very hard working, diligent and has a very strong grasp of banking documentation. Aidan is particularly strong at cash flow lending having worked on a number of high profile transactions in recent years. Coupled with his hard work ethic, Aidan is generally light hearted and fun to work with.’
Key clients
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.
The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland
Irish Residential Properties REIT plc and its subsidiary IRES Residential Properties Limited
Urbeo Residential Fund ICAV
Dairygold Co-operative Society Limited
Cardinal Capital Group UC
Marlet Property Group
Deutsche Bank AG – London Branch
Bain
Oaktree Capital Management
Citibank
Relm Loan Opportunities 3 Dac
AshGrove Capital
ATA Group
PIMCO
Leumi UK
European Investment Bank
Ornua
SilverPoint
HSBC
MUFG Bnak
Activate
Wells Fargo Capital Finance
Work highlights
- Advised the governor and company of the Bank of Ireland as ‘first out’ lender in connection with refinancing Writech’s existing indebtedness and financing certain bolt-on acquisitions (including Orbital Welding Solutions).
- Represented Marlet Property Group as borrower for the financing of its development of 1,108 residential apartments in Howth and Grand Canal Harbour in Dublin.
- Advised Allied Irish Banks, and the governor and company of the Bank of Ireland, on debt facilities to Phoenix Labs Unlimited and connected companies to refinance existing debt and acquire portfolios of assets from Sanofi and other leading international pharmaceuticals companies.
Ireland > Capital markets Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has a highly developed DCM practice, which is widely respected for its strength in handling covered bonds, green bonds, social bonds, securitisations, and OTC and exchange traded derivatives; the ‘highly impressive‘ Judith Lawless has established expertise in derivatives matters. Fergus Gillen, Adrian Farrell and Hugh Beattie have excellent reputations in DCM, securitisation and structured products, and Éamon Ó Cuív, who has returned to Dublin from the London office, garners praise for his ‘meticulous attention to detail‘. Sarah Pickering is a rising star in the debt capital markets space. ECM mandates remain prominent in the group’s workload, and David Byers and Stephen FitzSimons are key figures in equity deals. Gill Lohan is singled out for her expertise in IPOs. Aidan Lawlor and Conor O’Dwyer left the firm in 2024.Practice head(s):
Fergus Gillen; Stephen FitzSimons
Other key lawyers:
Fergus Gillen; Adrian Farrell; Judith Lawless; Hugh Beattie; Éamon Ó Cuiv; David Byers; Gill Lohan; Sarah Pickering
Testimonials
‘The team assisted us with a large, strategically important project and were a fantastic support throughout. The team were responsive, well-organised and competitive on pricing.’
‘Fergus Gillen was a brilliant support to us. He was proactive and pragmatic. His advice was always clear, concise and commercially focussed.’
‘The team is very client focussed and knows our business really well – they really know what is and is not important commercially for us. We really value the continuity of of people over many years.’
‘Adrian Farrell in particular stands out, he is extremely responsive, always provides top quality advice and it really helps us that is is well known and respected in the market.’
‘Judith Lawless is a highly impressive lawyer. Her knowledge of the subject matter is boundless and her response times are excellent.’
‘We consistently instruct Éamon Ó Cuiv of McCann Fitzgerald to advise on our debt finance transactions on account of his expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and his unwavering commitment to having a granular understanding not only of the transaction, but of the wider needs that we have as a client.’
‘Hugh Beattie – nothing fazes him and he has a complete appreciation of what is being asked of him. Fast turn-around on documentation too.’
Key clients
Debt Capital Markets
Allied Irish Banks p.l.c. /AIB Mortgage Bank
Andorra Bank Agricol Reig, SA (Andbank)
Barclays Bank PLC
Eaton Corporation and related companies
BNP Paribas
Morgan Stanley
Intesa Sanpaolo Bank Ireland p.l.c.
Prodigy Finance
Electricity Supply Board
Avenue Capital Management
Nomura International plc
International Swaps and Derivatives Association Inc.
Investcorp
Citibank
No Limit Capital LLP
Equity Capital Markets
Kingspan Group Plc
Kerry Group Plc
Kenmare Resources Plc
Greencoat Renewables Plc
C&C Group Plc
AIB Group Plc
Irish Residential Properties REIT Plc (I•RES REIT)
Datalex Plc
Hostelworld Group plc
Origin Enterprises Plc
Hammerson plc
Goldman Sachs
J&E Davy
Goodbody Stockbrokers
Trinseo PLC
Alkermes plc
Work highlights
- Acted as lead counsel to Deutsche Bank on the MBS of a portfolio.
Ireland > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP continues to handle a high volume of transactional work, including private equity investments. Real estate, engineering, life sciences, insurance, aviation, energy and pharmaceuticals are key sector strengths for the corporate and M&A team, which is equally adept at advising financial institutions on deals. Stephen FitzSimons heads the corporate practice, and David Byers and David Lydon are highly regarded practitioners in the market. Ben Gaffikin, Garreth O’Brien, Alan Fuller and Valerie Lawlor have excellent reputations in the space. Brendan Murphy, Gill Lohan, Stephen Fuller and John Neeson are emerging talents. Aidan Lawlor and Conor O'Dwyer have left the firm.Practice head(s):
Stephen FitzSimons
Other key lawyers:
David Lydon; David Byers; Alan Fuller; Garreth O’Brien; Rory O’Malley; Ben Gaffikin; Gill Lohan; Stephen Fuller; Gary McSharry; Niall Best; Brendan Murphy; John Neeson
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge of the sector and very responsive. Very good at laying out what is market standard and identifying where a position might be at risk.’
‘Excellent during negotiations at defining our position while outlining the position of the counterparty and moving the negotiations forward to our satisfaction.’
‘The firm has a solid corporate M&A practice.’
‘We work with Alan Fuller. Great to deal with.’
‘Complete service firm providing actionable, practical advice.’
‘A very strong team combining intellectual prowess with pragmatism.’
Key clients
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.
JP Morgan
Centaur Group
Jones Engineering
ESB
Water Street Healthcare Partners LLC
MML Capital Partners
ORIX Aviation Systems Limited
Pfizer, Inc.
Amplex AB
AMP Capital Investors (UK) Limited
MCR Outsourcing Limited
Azets
Tiger Infrastructure Partners
McCauley Pharmacy Group
Finance Ireland
Penta Group / Falfurrias Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Advised JP Morgan on its acquisition of Cork-based Global Shares.
- Advised AIB on the purchase of Ulster Bank’s €4.2bn corporate loan book.
- Advised Pfizer on the Irish aspects of its acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Company.
Ireland > Construction Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP houses a team of ‘leaders in their field‘ with experience extending across all aspects of construction work, from procurement to the negotiation of contracts, financing arrangements and complex disputes. The firm is active across the residential, social housing, student accommodation, healthcare and energy sectors, and plays a prominent role in advising major developers on high-profile mixed-use regeneration projects in Dublin. The ‘highly respected‘ Kevin Kelly leads the sizeable team, which also includes Barrett Chapman, Stephen Proctor, a key name for energy and public infrastructure projects, disputes specialist Sean Carr, Jamie McGee, who was promoted to partner in May 2023, and Maeve Mac Dermott Casement.Practice head(s):
Kevin Kelly
Other key lawyers:
Barrett Chapman; Stephen Proctor; Orlaith Sheehy; Sean Carr; Jamie McGee; Maeve Mac Dermott Casement
Testimonials
‘The team has an excellent level of professionalism and expertise, offering excellent customer service and discussing the options to best meet requirements.’
‘Orlaith Sheehy has extensive experience, is an excellent communicator, has a practical approach to mitigating/resolving issues and an excellent focus on customer service.’
‘What truly sets McCann FitzGerald apart is their unwavering dedication to clients. It is evident that they care deeply about the outcome of deals. They communicate clearly and provide clear analysis of the legal risks within a complex structure.’
‘Barrett Chapman has an impressive depth of knowledge and a keen understanding of the intricacies and nuances of deals. He takes time to analyse options and to ensure that clients have a clear understanding of potential choices.’
‘The team are leaders in their field. They are practical, commercial and great to deal with.’
‘Kevin Kelly is a highly respected lawyer in Dublin.’
‘Sean Carr is simply one of the most able construction contracts experts in the legal industry and together with his litigation knowledge he can provide the full service that leads into mediation/briefing of senior counsel in advance of court proceedings.’
‘A very well-established, resourced and respected team led by pre-eminent and highly experienced partners with extensive industry knowledge and outstanding technical ability. The practice is very strong across both contentious and non-contentious construction law and at the forefront of industry initiatives in Ireland.’
Key clients
Activate
AIB
An Post
Ardstone Partners ICAV
Bain Capital Credit LP
Ballymore Group
Bank of Ireland
Bartra Capital Property Group
Billings Design Associates
Blackstone
Boliden Tara Mines DAC
Bord Na Móna plc
Clancy Construction
Collen Construction
Dublin City Council
Ervia/Aurora
ESB
FuturEnergy Ireland
Grangegorman Development Agency
Hammerson/Allianz
Helaba
Homeland Investments
Housing Finance Agency
HSBC
Irish Water
Jacobs
John Sisk
Jones Engineering
Legend Biotech
Lioncor
Macquarie Capital
Marlet Property Group
M.B. McNamara Construction
M&G Real Estate
National Development Finance Agency
National Paediatric Hospital Development Board
Office of Government Procurement
Office of Public Works
Orpea Groupe
Pembroke Beach DAC
Primary Health Properties ICAV
Project Management Group
PSE Kinsale Energy Limited
Quintain Ireland
Rosch Ireland Limited
Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
TSL Project Ireland
Urbeo Residential Fund ICAV
Walls Construction
Work highlights
- Advising Diageo on the construction of its state-of-the-art carbon neutral brewery, which will be the second largest brewery in Ireland.
- Advising Ballymore Group on the development of 12 acres of land at St James’s Gate into Dublin’s first Zero Carbon District, comprising new residential, commercial and leisure spaces.
Ireland > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
The team at McCann FitzGerald LLP regularly handles a wide variety of matters concerning cybersecurity, data protection and privacy policies. the group assists an array of national and international technology companies and public sector entities with GDPR compliance. Paul Lavery oversees the team and has in-depth expertise in assisting clients with all data protection obligations, including compliance strategies and data transfers outside the EEA. Adam Finlay regularly acts as an EU GDPR representative for non-EU companies, while Doug McMahon assists clients with personal data breaches and statutory investigations brought by the Data Protection Commission.Practice head(s):
Paul Lavery
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Walsh; Adam Finlay; Doug McMahon
Testimonials
‘McCann FitzGerald has a very strong data privacy practice – in my view, the best in Ireland. All of the partners in the group are excellent practitioners in the area and have significant experience. In addition, the other members are also very well-versed and have benefited from high-quality training and from working with the more senior lawyers. We also have a very collaborative relationship with the firm, which has assisted us in providing dedicated resources to cover various types of gaps in our internal team.’
‘Paul Lavery is an exceptional data privacy lawyer, knowledgeable, approachable and pragmatic. He understands the needs of our business but also where we need to go to ensure compliance. He is top-notch and easy to work with. Another lawyer of a very high calibre is Catherine Walsh.’
‘The team is well-liked for its pragmatic approach. It listens to our instructions and what we want to achieve from the engagement, which it has always delivered.’
‘Adam Finlay is outstanding. He returns calls promptly, gives real-world, clear, succinct advice and is calm and pragmatic.’
‘Our experience with the team has been positive – they are responsive and collaborative and always ensure to be efficient in delivering the end product. Both partners and associates are excellent and ensure to respond to queries promptly.’
‘The partners and associates are MCF stand out for their responsiveness and agility to deal with the legal issues that arise. Paul Lavery is very effective in terms of delivering the legal product promptly. The team are also good at communicating with clients and ensuring that clients are kept up-to-date. The team have strong industry knowledge and can offer very practical advice.’
Key clients
Alkermes
Ervia
Law Society
Corporate Transaction Support
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
International Law Firms
Start Mortgages
Navi Group
Vhi
GDPR Representative Services
National Transport Authority
Rehab Group
Flac
Work highlights
- Advised Alkermes on a wide variety of data protection matters including its international data transfers project, notifications to the Data Protection Commission in relation to data security incidents, updates to notices and policies.
- Advised Transport Infrastructure Ireland on all aspects of its data protection compliance, including drafting and negotiating data processing provisions in contracts for various large scale procurements.
- Advised Vhi on a wide range of cutting-edge digital health and technology matters, which has included advising on complex data protection issues arising in connection with information sharing in the context of Vhi’s regulatory framework.
Ireland > Dispute resolution Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has a well-developed commercial litigation practice, coupled with strength in contentious public law matters; it has vast experience in judicial reviews and statutory appeals. It has achieved further growth in highly-regulated areas, including data protection, market abuse regulations and competition. Catherine Derrig has an established reputation in commercial and regulatory disputes, and is also noted for contentious competition matters. ‘Top class litigator‘ Rosaleen Byrne is a leader in contentious regulatory matters, including financial services and telecoms cases. Helen Kilroy is a seasoned figure in shareholder disagreements and breach of warranty claims, and in insurance disputes. Roddy Bourke is an outstanding practitioner in product liability cases. Brian Quigley and Ciara Ryan are also highly rated. Bébhinn Bollard and Amy Brick were promoted to the partnership in May 2023. Karyn Harty has left the firm.Practice head(s):
Michael Murphy; Ciara Ryan
Other key lawyers:
Michelle Doyle; Rosaleen Byrne; Helen Kilroy; Brian Quigley; Audrey Byrne; Catherine Derrig; Michael Coonan; Amy Brick; Bébhinn Bollard; Marie-Alice Cleary
Testimonials
‘MF are unique because they take great care to understand your business and how they can add value in whatever discipline is required. They are innovative in so far as they invest in young companies in the hope that a deeper relationship will prevail at a later stage. They take a very collaborative approach in everything they do, valuing their customers greatly.’
‘I have to say that throughout my whole relationship with MF, I always felt like they had my back and had our interest at heart. Their people are a class act, equipped with the necessary skills to excel above the competition coupled with a wonderful easy going relationship management style designed to put their customers at ease. It’s hard to single out individuals but Rory and Catherine as partners are humble and sincere but more importantly steeped with integrity in everything they do. Their teams follow their lead, which makes the whole MF experience so easy. Many organisations could learn from their approach to looking after customers.
‘Michelle Doyle is pragmatic and solutions-focused. She understands service delivery and gets the job done quickly and efficiently. She is microscopic in her analysis and presents it in a user friendly manner. Ciara Ryan is an excellent technical lawyer and is comprehensive in her file knowledge. She is pragmatic and focused in addressing client needs.’
‘Helen Kilroy is someone you want on your side when there’s a fight at play. She has a unique ability to distill complex technical information and find a solution to a problem that no one has yet thought of. Catherine Derrig has an ability to find the crux of the problem, and turn it into a positive for the client.’
‘The MCF team are genuinely a pleasure to deal with, from my perspective as a barrister. They are universally smart, commercial in their outlook and never get too flustered.’
‘Beibhinn Bollard, recently appointed a partner, is smart, hard working and unflappable. Rosaleen Byrne is a top-class litigator who is a pleasure to deal with, while always protecting her client’s interests. Michael Coonan is smart and sensible. Helen Kilroy is the best mediator in the country.’
‘Bebhinn Bollard is a stand out partner, she combines exceptional ability with a calm demeanour and strategic focus. ’
‘Audrey Byrne stands out as an impressive litigator and investigator, able to simplify the most complex fact patterns to get to the heart of the problem. A pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Altum Capital Management LLC
Amazon
Biogen MA Inc and Biogen International GmbH (“Biogen”)
Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS)
Central Bank of Ireland
CHC Ireland DAC
Commission for Communications Regulation
DAF Trucks NV and DAF Trucks Deutschland GmbH
Davy Hickey
DePuy International Limited
Dublin Airport Authority plc
Galway County Council
General Motors
Grunenthal GmbH
Hypertrust Limited (part of the Loyola Group), Aberken Limited (part of the Chris Kelly Group)
Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (in Special Liquidation)
Limerick City and County Council
Malin Corporation plc
Marlet Property Group
Mediahuis Ireland Group Limited
MGG California LLC
National Transport Authority
Origin Enterprises Plc
Ronan Real Estate Group Limited
Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority
SMBC Aviation Capital Limited, Global Aviation Equipment Leasing 1 Ireland Limited and Wilmington Trust SP Services (Dublin) Limited
The Sellers of Barracuda FX Limited
The Voluntary Health Insurance Board
Trafalgar Trafhold Limited, Instantania Holdings Limited, Kamara Limited and Bairiki Incorporated
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Work highlights
- Represented SMBC Aviation Capital in Commercial Court proceedings, in which it seeks an indemnity from its insurers (16 different insurers across multiple jurisdictions, including Lloyds insurers), arising out of the loss of 34 aircraft on lease to Russian airlines.
- Acted for Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (in Special Liquidation) in its action against EY, claiming damages for breach of contract, negligence and breach of duty in relation to EY’s audit of Anglo’s financial statements from 1996 to 2008 and its failure to identify certain transactions carried out by Anglo’s former chairman, Sean FitzPatrick, with Irish Nationwide Building Society in connection with his loans with Anglo between 1996 and 2008.
- Acted for the Central Bank of Ireland in relation to the application of the Russian sanctions regime to winding up proceedings and a directions application brought in respect of what is likely to be a significant litigation.
Ireland > Employment Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP represents clients in a wide range of employment related matters, including data privacy, pension and regulatory mandates. Outside of transactional work, the team handles workplace and corporate investigations, regularly appearing before the Labour Court, High Court and WRC in employment disputes. Mary Brassil leads the team, with a focus on employment and industrial relation issues arising from corporate restructurings, cross-border mergers and redundancies. Terence McCrann maintains a strong reputation for conducting workplace investigations and mediations concerning partnership disputes. Donal Hamilton assists with TUPE and disciplinary proceedings, while Stephen Holst is active in contentious matters.Practice head(s):
Mary Brassil
Other key lawyers:
Terence McCrann; Donal Hamilton; Stephen Holst; David McCauley
Testimonials
‘David McCauley is very responsive and supportive in his approach to supporting us with all legal matters – he works to understand our business to ensure our approach is aligned to any custom & practice.’
‘The MCF team have good advice on employment issues. I have never felt that I am not getting solid advice on employment issues.’
‘Donal Hamilton is always available to be contacted when industrial relations matters arise, which is important in the cut and thrust of disputes. He is always confident in his advice.’
‘This is a strong employment team that has looked after the needs of many of our clients in the Republic of Ireland over many years.’
‘Mary Brassil and Stephen Holst are both very prompt, thorough and great with clients.’
‘There is a huge depth of knowledge within the practice and great ease of access to professionals within other specialisms to supplement the employment team.’
‘The people and office are excellent.’
‘The uniqueness of this legal practice’s service lies in the blend of expertise, personalised attention and a commitment to achieving the best outcomes for clients.’
Key clients
Aer Lingus
Roche Pharmaceuticals
Boston Scientific
Merck Sharpe and Dohme
National Transport Authority
VHI
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Sanofi
Science Foundation Ireland
CHC Helicopters
Work highlights
- Advised Boliden Tara Mines on the employment and industrial relations aspects of the high-profile temporary cessation of operations at its facility in Tara.
- Advised Roche on a six day hearing before the Workplace Relations Commission concerning claims of penalisation and unfair dismissal by a former employee under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014.
- Advised Workhuman on the employment law aspects of a high-profile tech-sector collective redundancy process.
Ireland > Energy and natural resources Tier 1
The energy and natural resources practice at McCann FitzGerald LLP assists its varied client list of project sponsors, lenders and state bodies with a wide range of mandates, including the development, structuring, financing and construction of projects. The firm regularly handles renewable energy projects, including onshore and offshore wind projects, and solar and hydrogen power plants. Valerie Lawlor heads the team, with her specific focus on M&A and IPO transactions, while Rory O’Malley is well-versed in equity fundraisings in the renewable sector. Key names within the practice include planning and environmental expert Brendan Slattery, and Éamon Ó Cuív, who regularly assists clients with infrastructure assets from London office.Practice head(s):
Valerie Lawlor
Other key lawyers:
Rory O’Malley; Brendan Slattery; Éamon Ó Cuív
Testimonials
‘I have worked with Rory O’Malley and Valerie Lawlor, and they have been at the forefront of an ever-changing market during this time. The team led by Rory and Valarie have evolved and adapted to changes in the energy market.’
‘Proven ability to execute with a problem-solving focus and attention to every detail’
‘Seamless integration of sector-specific energy knowledge with corporate know-how.’
‘Valerie Lawlor is a top energy practitioner with an acute perception of client needs.’
‘MCF are responsive and punctual in providing a legal opinion in an evolving legislative sphere.’
‘The MCF team is approachable and personable – providing a unique delivery of advice verbally, complimented by formal written opinion.’
Key clients
Electricity Supply Board
MaresConnect
Department of Environment, Climate and Communications
Greencoat Renewables
PSE Kinsale Energy
Bord na Móna and ESB
Coillte
Ronan Group Real Estate
Investment in Hall Power Limited
Mitsui & Co., Ltd
Statkraft
GAMA
Gore Street Capital
Emerging Markets Power (Holdings) Limited
Galileo Green Energy Gmbh
Wind Power Invest A/S
Regnum Renewables Ireland Limited
Ecocem Materials Limited
Ervia/Irish Water/Gas Networks Ireland
Aer Soléir/547 Energy
FuturEnergy Ireland
Octopus Renewables
Solas Sustainable Energy Fund ICAV – Vivd Edge
New Fortress Energy
Greenvolt Next Holding, S.A.
Commission for Regulation of Utilities
Bord na Móna
Prepaypower
Ørsted
The shareholders of Cnoc Windfarms Limited
Greenlink
Energia
Saorgus
Boliden Tara Mines
Breedon Group
Vedanta Resources
Work highlights
- Advised Electricity Supply Board on its landmark agreement with the Danish wind energy company, Ørsted, to jointly develop an Irish offshore wind portfolio.
- Advised the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications on the design and legal drafting of the terms and conditions for the third RESS auction.
- Advised Bord na Móna and ESB joint venture on the development of a 108 MWp solar project at Timahoe North, Co.
Ireland > EU and competition Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has an impressive history in the EU and competition field, including merger control matters, along with anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominance and state aid advice. It has extensive experience in cartel investigations and competition litigation, including follow-on damages actions. Following the retirement of long-time department head Philip Andrews, it promoted Amy Brick to partner in May 2023 and has expanded the ranks below partner level. Laura Treacy now leads the team, which includes litigators Rosaleen Byrne and Catherine Derrig, who both have specialist expertise in competition cases, such as representing DAF Trucks in follow-on damages claims in Ireland.Practice head(s):
Laura Treacy
Other key lawyers:
Rosaleen Byrne; Catherine Derrig; Louise O’Callaghan; Amy Brick; Beverley Williamson; Stephen Ryan
Testimonials
‘This team is extremely professional, thorough and capable. In an area that does not lend itself to simple or straightforward advice, they will set out the analysis in very clear terms and set out their view.’
‘Laura Treacy is an outstanding lawyer. She can absorb complex fact structures and see straight through to the core legal issues. She also provides her advice with a very commercial slant.’
‘Senior associate Stephen Ryan is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with. He is hardworking, conscientious, clever, easy to work with, and most importantly intellectually honest in every piece of advice and legal work that he does.’
‘Stephen Ryan speaks confidently and clearly in public events and lectures and was often sought out for speaking engagements. He has an excellent attitude about work and was always available to assist his colleagues on competition law questions. Stephen is one of the best lawyers that I have ever worked with and I give him the highest rating possible.’
‘McCann FitzGerald has a great competition practice and all of the associates and partners are very knowledgeable and trustworthy. There is very good attention to detail and they take the time to get to know what it is you need and provide sound advice.’
‘Beverley Williamson is a great addition to the team. She is very knowledgeable, easy to work with, and responsive to client needs.’
‘Stephen Ryan stands out. He is absolutely brilliant: ferociously intelligent, indefatigable, absolutely committed to a case, superb judgment and a joy to work with.’
‘McCanns’s lawyers are experts in Irish and EU competition law. They can seamlessly combine expertise across practice areas, such as energy and competition, which helps provide valuable and efficient advice to clients.’
Key clients
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.
Coillte Teoranta (the state-owned commercial forestry business)
ESB (Ireland’s foremost energy company)
ComReg (the Irish Telecoms Regulator)
VHI (the State-owned, leading supplier of private healthcare insurance in Ireland)
DAF Trucks
National Transport Authority
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Diageo Ireland
NaviCorp
Work highlights
- Advised NaviCorp on notification to the CCPC of its proposed sale to Uniphar.
- Advised AIB on its acquisition of performing residential tracker mortgages from Ulster Bank.
- Acted for DAF Trucks in follow-on damages claims in Ireland arising from a Commission decision containing a finding of infringement of competition law rules.
Ireland > Fintech Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP houses a wide-ranging fintech practice which handles sophisticated mandates across the fields of financial services regulation, disputes, tax, corporate, data protection, cyber security and venture capital. The team is particularly well-regarded for its expertise in financial services regulation, where practice head Josh Hogan has a strong reputation for advising financial institutions and fintech companies, among others, on regulatory compliance, authorisations, and the launch of new products and platforms. Doug McMahon and Adam Finlay, who are recommended for their advice on data protection, cyber security, tech and outsourcing agreements, are also names to note.Practice head(s):
Josh Hogan
Other key lawyers:
Adam Finlay; Doug McMahon; Bébhinn Bollard; James Fitzgerald; Holly Draper-Spillane
Testimonials
‘Great collaboration with the disputes team and brilliant lawyers.’
‘Exceptional knowledge of the sector and quality advice.’
‘Douglas McMahon instinctively understands client’s needs and gets the job done with minimal fuss. He is an outstanding expert in his field and instils confidence with his no-nonsense approach.’
‘The team has a great understanding of the latest tech trends in the market- they are all spot-on and at the forefront of legal development.’
Key clients
J.P. Morgan
Capitalflow Group DAC
FNZ Group
National Transport Authority
Fidelity Investments
BitPanda GmbH
Aftab Currency Exchange Limited
Aryza
Interpath Advisory Services
Visa Europe Limited
Banking Circle
Allied Irish Banks, plc.
Goldman Sachs
Work highlights
- Advising J.P. Morgan on its acquisition of Global Shares plc, a leading cloud-based provider of share plan management software, for a reported $730m.
- Advising a number of clients, including Capitalflow, the National Transport Authority and Fidelity, on launching new products and services in compliance with financial services regulatory legislation.
- Advising various early-stage clients in the fintech sector in connection with convertible debt and equity fundraisings, including Adella Holdings Limited, Verge Capital Limited, CreditLogic, MyMoneyJar Limited and Squid Rewards Limited.
Ireland > Healthcare and life sciences Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has a major presence in contentious, transactional and regulatory aspects of life sciences and healthcare. It continues to be noted for product liability and has acted for clients in many of the largest cases in recent Irish history. IP and commercial disputes are also a forte for the team, which has an established record in transactions and regulatory matters. Fiona O’Beirne is hugely experienced in IP and commercial disputes, notably patent litigation in the medical device and pharmaceutical sectors; she and her team continue to act for clients in a range of headline cases. Roddy Bourke is a market leader in product liability cases and corporate partner David Lydon has a background in high-value life sciences transactions.Practice head(s):
Roddy Bourke; Fiona O’Beirne; David Lydon
Other key lawyers:
Paul Lavery; Adam Finlay; Garreth O’Brien; Shane O’Brien; Catherine Derrig; Catherine Walsh
Testimonials
‘Paul Lavery and Catherine Walsh of McCann FitzGerald are exceptionally dedicated and knowledgeable – they offer the kind of insight and service that every client wishes they could achieve with external counsel.’
Key clients
Pfizer Inc.
Bristol Meyers Squib
VHI
Biogen MA Inc and Biogen International GmbH
Inflection Biosciences
Alkermes Pharma Ireland Limited and Alkermes Inc
Water Street Healthcare Partners LLC
Work highlights
- Acted for Biogen in ongoing patent proceedings against Neuraxpharm in the Intellectual Property and Technology Division of the Commercial Court.
- Acted for Bristol Myers Squibb in the defence of a Commercial Court patent/SPC revocation action brought by Norton (Waterford) Limited.
- Advised Inflection Biosciences on IP ownership, licensing, development, exploitation, and protection measures and strategies in connection with its review and development of patents and related IP in the field of oncology.
Ireland > Information technology Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP’s technology and innovation group offers comprehensive legal advice to public and private sector entities on the full spectrum of IT agreements and projects. The team particularly stands out for its experience of handling high-value acquisition transactions within the technology sector. Paul Lavery heads the practice and regularly assists clients with the supply, implementation and support of new IT systems and services. Adam Finlay and Doug McMahon advise on technology outsourcing, data protection, and cyber security matters. Other key members of the team include Ruth Hughes and Catherine Walsh.Practice head(s):
Paul Lavery
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very strong team that provides insightful, practical advice and lawyers with a lot of experience in the sector.’
‘I would highly recommend Paul Lavery in this area – he knows his way around this industry very well. Another superlative performer in this space is Catherine Walsh.’
‘Excellent availability for urgent matters. Ability to explain complex concepts. Good understanding of the market from the perspective of both the contracting authority and the supplier.’
‘Adam Finlay has the unique ability to communicate complex concepts to the full spectrum of client staff. Great market insights. Always offers options and strategies when negotiating on contract clauses. Advises taking account of the risk profile of the client organisation and specific project. Super availability, especially for urgent matters.’
‘Pragmatic, very commercial team which is responsive and has good industry knowledge.’
‘Doug McMahon is highly intelligent, commercial, pragmatic and responsive.’
‘McCanns are very responsive to client needs. Their advice is invariably spot on, delivered efficiently and within the cost estimate provided.’
‘Doug McMahon is extremely knowledgeable and delivers workable solutions to what can sometimes be very complicated matters. He is very approachable and talks to clients in a language they can understand.’
Key clients
National Transport Authority
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Ervia (including Uisce Éireann and Gas Networks Ireland)
Vhi
Central Bank of Ireland
Irish Life
Institute of Banking
Alkermes
Maynooth University
CreditLogic
Road Safety Authority
Various Corporate Transactions
Kingspan
Allied Irish Bank, p.l.c
Nostra Technologies
Coimisiún na Meán
Work highlights
- Advised the NTA on a number of large-scale IT outsourcing agreements.
- Advised Alkermes on a key IT project for its enterprise resource system and financial systems.
- Advised the Central Bank of Ireland on its procurement of managed IT services, including the provision of a new data centre and SIEM services.
Ireland > Insolvency and corporate restructuring Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP‘s commitment to the insolvency and restructuring field, driven by a group of specialist partners and associates, has landed it a prestigious client base and an impressive record in major contentious and non-contentious matters. The team has broad sectoral coverage, earning further recognition for cases linked to sanctions imposed on the Russian state following its invasion of Ukraine. Head of the dispute resolution and litigation group, Michael Murphy, is an outstanding practitioner, having represented clients in many of the headline restructurings in Ireland over recent years. Lisa Smyth is another leading lawyer, along with David O’Dea, who has an emerging reputation.Practice head(s):
Michael Murphy
Other key lawyers:
Lisa Smyth; David O’Dea; Aine Murphy
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge and experience combined with high quality drafting skills, which gives great comfort when applications are being made to the High Court. Responsiveness.’
‘Lisa Smyth adds a strategic and practical approach to her legal expertise in the area, which adds significant value to the client when it comes to problem solving and achieving particular outcomes.’
‘Broad range of capabilities with the breadth and depth of team to handle large, complex restructuring and insolvency matters.’
‘All very technically strong and robust in providing advice on complicated, complex restructuring and insolvency matters.’
Work highlights
Ireland > Insurance Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has a broad client base of insurers and reinsurers, including those for which it is exclusive Irish corporate and regulatory counsel. It has continued to advise major multinational insurers on high-value M&A transactions and is at the forefront of insurance disputes, including business interruption cases. ESG, sanctions and outsourcing are growth areas for the insurance team. Darragh Murphy is at the forefront of insurance regulatory matters and Brian Quigley is a leader in insurance disputes, along with Catherine Derrig, who specialises in health insurance and professional indemnity. Helen Kilroy and Roddy Bourke are also noted for insurance disputes. Associate Donnchadh Ó Collatáin is a rising star.Practice head(s):
Darragh Murphy; Brian Quigley
Other key lawyers:
Helen Kilroy: Roddy Bourke; Catherine Derrig; David Hurley; Seán Barton; Alan Fuller; Donnchadh Ó Collatáin; David Lydon; Ger Sadlier
Testimonials
‘The practice is extremely client-focused.’
‘Helen Kilroy is hard-working, knows her brief, is excellent at distilling the issues at hand and suggesting practical solutions. Helen is respected and heard at every level.’
‘McCann Fitzgerald’s insurance team are a high performing, extremely responsive and dynamic team. They have an ability to grasp technical issues easily and advise in an easily comprehensive manner the best approach for the client. It also assists that they cross-collaborate with other departments internally going beyond whats expected to ensure all avenues are covered. A pleasure to deal with.’
‘Helen Kilroy is someone you want on your side when there’s a fight at play. She has a unique ability to distill complex technical information and find a solution to a problem no one has yet thought of. Catherine Derrig has an ability to find the crux of the problem, and turn it into a positive for the client.’
‘The insurance practice in McCann Fitzgerald consistently demonstrates excellence in both knowledge of the laws and regulations, and the market in which our business operates. They regularly advise on complex structures and arrangements and are commercial in their approach. They are very pleasant to work with and always very approachable.’
‘Darragh Murphy is the partner usually engaged. He is extremely knowledgeable about financial services generally and, in particular, the legal and regulatory aspects of insurance law. He is very commercial and pragmatic in terms of commercial negotiations. Donnchadh O’Collatain is another senior associate that has been engaged and he, too, is very good.’
Key clients
MetLife Europe dac and related companies
Great West LifeCo Inc./ Irish Life Assurance plc and related companies
Just Retirement Limited
SMBC Aviation Capital Limited
VHI Insurance dac
Greenval Insurance dac
CBL Insurance Europe dac
Loyola Group and Chris Kelly Group
Allianz plc
White Horse Insurance Ireland dac and related companies
AIG
Zurich
QBE Europe SA/SV
Qover SA
AWPI Assistance Ireland Ltd
Work highlights
- Engaged to act as lead counsel to the Great West Lifeco Group in the proposed establishment of a life and pensions joint venture with Allied Irish Banks plc.
- Acted as lead counsel to MetLife Europe on its disposal of a portfolio of health insurance business in Poland to NN Insurance (Project Greenland).
- Instructed by SMBC Aviation Capital Limited in relation to an insurance claim and subsequent proceedings for between $1 – 1.8 billion against 16 different insurers arising from the loss of 35 of the clients’ aircraft on lease to Russian airlines.
Ireland > Intellectual property Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP undertakes IP law mandates for a variety of domestic and international clients, with particular expertise in the life sciences, IT, and retail sectors. Contentious IP practice head Fiona O’Beirne has significant experience of litigation related to trade marks and infringement and works closely with patent disputes expert Shane O’Brien. Paul Lavery, the head of the non-contentious IP practice, regularly advises on technology, outsourcing, naming rights, and confidentiality matters, with strong support from Adam Finlay, who specialises in the drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements related to the ownership and use of intellectual property. Eoin Martyn is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Fiona O’Beirne; Paul Lavery
Other key lawyers:
Shane O’Brien; Adam Finlay; Eoin Martyn
Testimonials
‘Sophistication in patents and industry sectors. They are team players and easy to work with as part of an international team.’
Key clients
Bristol Myers Squibb
Biogen
Pfizer
Magnostics Limited
PM Group
Navi Group
Panda Waste
BidX1
Canada Life
National University of Ireland, Maynooth
Health Research Board
Science Foundation Ireland
National Transport Authority
Work highlights
- Represented BMS in the defence of a Commercial Court patent/SPC revocation action brought by Norton (Waterford) Limited t/a Teva Pharmaceuticals Ireland.
- Represented Biogen in Commercial Court patent proceedings against Neuraxpharm.
- Represented Pfizer in Commercial Court patent proceedings commenced by ModernaTX Inc. relating to Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid-19 vaccine, Comirnaty®.
Ireland > Investment funds Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has an intense focus on investment funds, especially the promotion and management of UCITS funds. Moreover, it has an established record in ETFs, hedge funds, structured products, and derivatives, as well as private equity, credit, and real estate funds. The team is also rated for its regulatory expertise, including SFDR compliance. Mark White is head of the investment management group and Iain Ferguson is another ‘exceptional lawyer'. Morgan Dunne is an impressive recently promoted partner, and Hugh Beattie has a key role in London.Practice head(s):
Mark White
Other key lawyers:
Iain Ferguson; Darragh Murphy; Hugh Beattie; Tony Spratt; Anna Moran; Morgan Dunne; Clare Gillett; Andrew McGovern; Seán Mulvey
Testimonials
‘Iain Ferguson is an exceptional partner who has a depth of experience in the subject matter of investment funds and also benefits from the experience of having worked in-house.’
‘The firm is very well organised. We are billed on a monthly basis so there are no surprises. We are very happy with the quality of legal advice, the team has depth, and the firm offers other services where needed e.g. GDPR queries.’
‘Both Tony Spratt and Seán Mulvey are very knowledgeable and practical in their advice. There is oversight by the partner but the work is done at the appropriate experience level so we get an efficient service at the right price, but with quality oversight.’
‘Morgan Dunne is an excellent lawyer with strong technical skills married with strong commercial instincts.’
‘An excellent partner bench with depth and diversity of expertise that brings a reassuring element of calm to clients. They have specialist knowledge of the requirements of pension investors and ESG.’
‘Morgan Dunne is a fantastic partner who is on the cutting edge of challenging and emerging areas of funds law like ESG. He is responsive and thoughtful in his advice with a personable demeanour.’
‘The funds team is technically excellent, commercially minded, always deliver to deadlines and are friendly and approachable. They are a great team to work with.’
‘Hugh Beattie was instrumental in advising and finalising documentation in relation to credit facility arrangements for our organisation. Hugh remained calm throughout the difficult commercial and legal challenges.’
Key clients
Cantor Fitzgerald Ireland Limited
Carne Group
EC Pohl & Co
Edge Aviation ICAV
Elkstone Partners
FFF Partners
Perpetual Group
Ardstone Capital
Willis Towers Watson
AMX
UBS Wealth Management
UBS Investment Bank
Metzler Bank/Metzler Asset Management
Universal Investments
Peal Capital Partners Group/PEAL Capital Partners ILP
Emerald Technology Ventures/Emerald Innovation Fund ILP
Urbeo Residential ICAV
JO Hambro Capital Management Limited
Pzena Investment Management LLC
Alvarium Investments
Hedge Fund Research, Inc
Solas Capital AG
MetLife Investment Management Europe Limited
BlueCove Limited
ValueAct Capital
Nordea Asset Management
Brookfield Asset Management
Aon Hewitt
UBS Global Asset Management
Irish Life Investment Managers
Hewlett Packard
Insight Investment
Goodbody Stockbrokers
Equity Trustees Fund Services
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation
Fund Partners
AMP Capital
Findlay Park Partners
Brandes
HFR Asset Management
Imapx Asset Management
Davy
Ireland (Irish State)
Fairfax (Hamblin Watsa)
M&G Investment Management
Coupland Cardiff Asset Management
Dragon Capital Management
Investcorp Credit Management
ABC arbitrage Asset Management
Marathon Asset Management
Work highlights
Ireland > Media and entertainment Tier 1
The full-service media and entertainment practice at McCann FitzGerald LLP offers advice on a wide range of contentious and non-contentious issues to its broad client list, which includes publishers, production companies, and internet and digital enterprises. The media defence team is also known for its involvement in invasion of privacy and defamation cases in the Irish High Court. Practice head Audrey Byrne specialises in handling online platform and digital media disputes, while betting and gaming group lead Alan Heuston regularly assists online gaming, betting and lottery companies with regulatory and taxation issues. Other key individuals include advertising law specialist Adam Finlay and recently promoted partner Bébhinn Bollard.Practice head(s):
Audrey Byrne
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Industry knowledge is exceptional.’
‘An excellent team – extremely knowledgeable.’
‘Audrey Byrne is involved in the most high-profile defamation cases in Ireland and is incredible at thinking outside the box on complex issues. She defends companies all around the world which are sued in Ireland. She is an expert on her subject matter and has a fantastic team. I cannot recommend Audrey highly enough.’
‘I enjoy collaborating with the McCann FitzGerald team. I enjoy the personal touch that McCann brings to providing services and advice. The team understands the company and responds to our working style. I find the team very personable, and the level of expertise is very diverse while also being able to pivot into very niche issues and challenges.’
‘I enjoy working with Bébhinn Bollard and her team at McCann. I always find the interactions balanced, measured and thorough. I feel informed as to the progress of our work and requests, and I find the team responsive and engaging.’
‘The McCann team has deep sector expertise, particularly in the gambling and entertainment space. The team provided critical on-the-ground support for us, and a great deal of strategic and commercial value as a part of our engagement.’
‘Alan Heuston has deep experience in the gambling and entertainment industry and navigates the regulatory environment with confidence and authority.’
‘Audrey Byrne is excellent. She is always available to give advice directly herself. She is open to hearing the client’s point of view and takes into account the client’s business concerns when providing advice. Accordingly, her advice is always tailored to the business and is truly client-focused.’
Key clients
BBC
CNN
BuzzFeed
Guardian
Malin
Amazon
CNN
Channel 4
Coimisiún na Meán
Mediahuis
RTE
The Clooney Foundation
CHC
Kingspan
Work highlights
- Represented LinkedIn Ireland Unlimited Company in the defence of High Court proceedings related to its automated artificial intelligence.
- Represented Guardian News and Media in the defence of defamation proceedings brought by two company directors and their fishing company arising from the client’s reportage on the alleged exploitation of fishing workers by Irish trawlers.
- Represented Channel 4 in defamation proceedings brought by Ryanair in respect of a documentary by Channel 4 relating to air safety.
Ireland > Pensions and employee benefits Tier 1
Under the leadership of Eleanor Cunningham, the pensions and incentives team at McCann FitzGerald LLP maintains a broad practice known for handling a wide range of pensions and incentive matters for a diverse client base of financial institutions, state sponsored bodies and trustees. The group handles the full spectrum of restructuring and winding up of pension benefits schemes and disputes, often appearing before the pensions ombudsman and Labour courts. Key members of the team include Catherine Austin and Clementine Farrell.Practice head(s):
Eleanor Cunningham
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Smart, capable and collegiate.’
‘Eleanor Cunningham is pragmatic, professional and pleasant to work with.’
‘A very strong pensions team. We particularly enjoy working with Catherine Austin. She is very knowledgeable, focused and provides excellent pragmatic advice on the law.’
‘ We particularly enjoy working with Catherine Austin. She is very knowledgeable, focused and provides excellent pragmatic advice on the law.’
‘The pensions team in McCann FitzGerald provides an excellent service.’
‘Catherine Austin’s in-depth knowledge of pensions enables her to continue to provide practical solutions to complex issues.’
‘First-rate pensions lawyers.’
‘Eleanor Cunningham – first-rate pension lawyer, providing excellent client service.’
Key clients
Aer Lingus
ESB Committee
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.
Trustees of a major semi-state statutory pension scheme
Trustees of the AerCap defined benefit pension scheme and AerCap
Work highlights
- Advised Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. on all pensions aspects arising from the acquisition by AIB from Ulster Bank/NatWest of Ulster Bank’s commercial banking division.
- Advised the ESB Defined Benefit Pension Scheme Committee and the in-house pension team in ESB that supports the Committee on a wide-range of issues on an on-going basis.
- Advised Aer Lingus on pensions and employment issues arising from their various multi—employer defined benefit schemes.
Ireland > Planning and environment Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has built a strong reputation for offering expert planning and environmental advice on some of the most complex residential and public transport projects in Ireland. The team has a particularly strong foothold in the energy sector, assisting with both conventional and renewable energy projects for public sector entities. Brendan Slattery has extensive experience of handling mandates related to social housing projects and jointly heads the team with seasoned litigator Michelle Doyle, who specialises in risk management in relation to major infrastructure projects, particularly from a planning and environmental standpoint, with the valuable support of Sinéad Martyn, Karen Quigley, and Nathan Walsh.Practice head(s):
Brendan Slattery; Michelle Doyle
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Ardstone Homes
Bartra Capital
Bord na Móna plc
Cairn Homes
Energia Group
ESB
Fingal County Council
Galway County Council
Glenveagh
Greenlink Interconnector
Greystar
Hammerson
Lioncor
Land Development Agency
Limerick City and County Council
MSD Ireland (Merck)
National Transport Authority
New Fortress Energy
Oakmount
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Statkraft
Work highlights
- Assisted the National Transport Authority with all planning and environmental support for the major BusConnects public transport project.
- Assisted Statkraft with its successful application for a maritime area consent.
- Advised Limerick City and County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland on the strategic defence of three significant judicial review challenges to An Bord Pleanála’s approval.
Ireland > Projects and PPP Tier 1
Clients from both the public and private sectors turn to McCann FitzGerald LLP for advice on complex projects from a diverse set of sectors, including transport, energy, utilities, infrastructure, education, housing, real estate and telecoms. Eamonn O’Hanrahan and Colm Fanning jointly head the practice and boast substantial expertise in the financial aspects of public transport and social housing projects. Brendan Slattery regularly advises public sector bodies and regulatory authorities on planning and environmental law, while Stephen Proctor focuses on construction and engineering projects. Other key members of the team include seasoned litigator Michelle Doyle and public procurement law experts Kevin Kelly and Orlaith Sheehy.Practice head(s):
Eamonn O’Hanrahan; Colm Fanning
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent project management, allocation of relevant resources, everything delivered promptly and excellent cross-functional approach.’
‘Orlaith Sheehy stands out for her ability to co-ordinate advice on various projects while staying focused and delivering on each to an excellent standard.’
‘I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with McCanns. The entire team demonstrated a high degree of professionalism and respect throughout our interaction.’
‘Brendan Slattery is excellent in his field. Michelle Doyle works tirelessly for her clients.’
‘The team are leaders in their field and are highly respected nationally and internationally.’
‘They offer expert, forward-thinking legal counsel at all times. They have a knowledge that spans a range of industry sectors. Your goals are their priority, and the most complex legal challenges are explained in layman’s terms.’
‘The team stand out for their knowledge and expertise in the area, and understanding of this particular area of law and ongoing judgments.’
‘A strong and dedicated team.’
Key clients
Allied Irish Banks PLC
Apollo Global Management, LLC
Bank of Ireland
Bartra Capital Property
Bord na Móna PLC
Brookfield Renewable Partners
Coillte
Department of Education
Diageo
Dublin City Council
Electricity Supply Board
Energia
Ervia/Gas Networks Ireland
European Investment Bank
Galway County Council
Global Student Accommodation
Goldbeck Solar
Greencells Group
Greencoat Capital LLP/Greencoat Renewables PLC
Hammerson
Home Building Finance Ireland
Housing Finance Agency
Housing Infrastructure Services Company
Irish Water
John Sisk & Son
Jones Engineering
Land Development Agency
Macquarie Group
National Development Finance Agency
National Paediatric Hospital Development Board
National Transport Authority
National Treasury Management Agency
Office of Government Procurement
Office of Public Works
Rabobank
Road Safety Authority
Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland
Statkraft
Touax
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Walls Construction
Ward and Burke Limited
Wicklow County Council
Work highlights
- Assisted the National Development Finance Agency/Dublin City Council with the legal structuring of the Dublin District Heating Scheme project.
- Advised the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board on the design and construction of the New Children’s Hospital and Satellite Centres with a value in excess of €1bn.
- Assisted FuturEnergy Ireland with its funding requirements of €300m on a rolling basis to fund development expenditure of onshore wind projects.
Ireland > Public sector Tier 1
With ‘expertise over a wide-range of areas‘, McCann FitzGerald LLP‘s public law practice advises an extensive roster of state and other public sector bodies on contentious and non-contentious regulatory and administrative matters. The team is widely recognised for its strength in public procurement matters and in the development of major infrastructure projects, particularly in the transport sector; projects specialist Eamonn O’Hanrahan and public procurement ‘expert‘ Orlaith Sheehy are notable names in this area. The firm also has a stellar record in judicial reviews and regulatory litigation, wherein Michelle Doyle, Catherine Derrig and Rosaleen Byrne are all highly regarded. Seán Barton is also a key name.Practice head(s):
Eamonn O’Hanrahan
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent understanding of public procurement law and advice on our obligations.’
‘Orlaith Sheehy is an expert in her industry. She has excellent communication skills and the ability to manage a number of projects with different demanding stakeholders and the challenges faced when these projects cross over – always ensuring the expectations of all are managed. Consistent and precise in her advice.’
‘Expert advisors.’
‘Expertise over a wide-range of areas. Very good response times and a proactive, collaborative approach.’
‘McCanns have fostered (and earned) a deep relationship with us at an organisational and personal level through the provision of high-quality legal advice.’
‘Deep knowledge of our organisation, its statutory role and functions and the environment it works within.’
‘I would highly recommend McCann Fitzgerald for any legal advice needed. They offer a high-quality, professional and efficient service.’
‘Each of the solicitors I worked with at McCanns was excellent. They have extensive experience with a keen eye for detail. Orlaith Sheehy deserves particular mention for her outstanding and prompt service.’
Key clients
An Post
Bord na Móna plc
Broadcasting Authority of Ireland
Central Bank of Ireland
Charities Regulator
CIE/Irish Rail
Coillte Teoranta (the Forestry Board)
Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg)
Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU)
Courts Service
Dublin Airport Authority
Electricity Supply Board
Ervia
Government Departments, including Department of Finance and Department of Justice and Equality
Home Building Finance Ireland (HBFI)
Housing Finance Agency (HFA)
Housing Infrastructure Services Company (HisCo)
Institute of Directors
Irish Bank Resolution Corporation
Irish Takeover Panel
Local authorities, including Galway County Council, Kildare County Council, Laois County Council, Dublin City Council, Waterford City & County Council and others
Maynooth University
National Accreditation Board
National Asset Management Agency
National Development Finance Agency
National Transport Authority
National Treasury Management Agency
Office of Government Procurement
Office of Public Works
Road Safety Authority
Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority
Shannon Airport Authority
State Claims Agency
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Trinity College Dublin
United States Government
University College Dublin
Voluntary Health Insurance Board (Vhi)
Work highlights
- Advising Voluntary Health Insurance Board (Vhi) in a range of ongoing matters, including a series of proceedings involving abuse of dominance claims brought against Vhi by service providers (including a medical service provider) for refusal of insurance.
- Advising the National Transport Authority on a variety of matters, including the procurement and contractual aspects of its Connecting Ireland rural transport plan.
- Advising the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation in connection with long-running and high-profile proceedings against the former CEO of Irish Nationwide Building Society.
Ireland > Real estate Tier 1
Acting for an impressive array of Irish commercial and residential developers, as well as for investors, occupiers and lenders, McCann FitzGerald LLP‘s ‘market-leading’ real estate practice is well equipped to handle high-profile deals in the office, retail, social housing and student accommodation sectors (and enjoys a particularly strong reputation for real estate finance). Donal O’Raghallaigh leads the group, while Shane Fahy, ‘excellent communicator‘ Shane Sweeney, Jennifer Halpin (a specialist in the sale of real estate loan portfolios) and Richard Leonard are other key names at senior level. Emily Mac Nicholas and Ruairí Stewart, who was promoted to partner in May 2023, are also noted.Practice head(s):
Donal O’Raghallaigh
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A trustworthy, hardworking and knowledgeable team with excellent communication skills and clarity of thinking. There is a great depth to their team.’
‘Donal O’Raghallaigh demonstrates professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to helping clients navigate complex deals.’
‘Emily Mac Nicholas’ significant experience in all things real estate law, tied in with her sound commercial acumen, make her a great partner to have on both complicated transactions which require significant input from both parties and less complicated leasing transactions where she uses prior experience to make the process smooth and simplistic without compromising on quality of outcome.’
‘Shane Sweeney is an excellent communicator and strategic legal advisor on the real estate side.’
‘The knowledge and expertise of McCann FitzGerald is market leading. They all have a can-do attitude no matter what hurdles are faced. There is nothing that phases them and they do it all with a positive attitude and stellar legal knowledge.’
‘Richard Leonard goes above and beyond for every transaction to ensure the best possible result for the client. He always makes himself available no matter what the issue.’
‘A superb team, joined up across disciplines.’
‘Ruairí Stewart is solution oriented, extremely capable and a joy to work with.’
Key clients
Lone Star/Quintain Ireland/Hudson Advisors
National Transport Authority (NTA)
Hammerson plc
MEAG MUNICH ERGO Asset Management GmbH
Primary Health Properties, plc
Lioncor Developments
Ardstone Partners ICAV
Hines
Sofidy (part of Tikehau Capital Group)
D|Res Developments
Chancerygate
M & G
Ruby Hotels GmbH
IPUT plc
MSD
Orpea S.A.
Apollo Global Management, Inc
Vodafone Ireland
Leopardstown Park Hospital Trust
Deutsche Bank
An Post
Housing Finance Agency
National Asset Management Agency
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
ESB
Crosbie Receivership
Central Bank of Ireland
Sherry FitzGerald
Marlet Property Group Limited
Bartra Capital Property Group
Rohan Group Ltd
Ronan Group Ltd
Irish Life Assurance Plc
AXA Real Estate Investment Managers
Urbeo Residential Fund ICAV
Davy
Global Student Accommodation Group UK
Salesforce
Coillte
Bank of Ireland
Allied Irish Bank
Activate Capital
Pfizer
Boston Scientific
Hollister
IMMAC Holding
Grangegorman Development Agency
HP Inc
Summix Capital
CitiBank
Start Mortgages
Pimco
Galway County Council
Lakeland Dairies
Godolphin Ireland Stud Farms
Avaio
Union Investment (UniInstitutional Infrastruktur SICAV-SIF)
Storebox Self-Storage
HCC International Insurance Company Plc
Pure Data Centres Group
Bain Capital Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Hudson Advisors on its large residential and commercial development land-banks at Cherrywood, Adamstown and Portmarnock in Dublin.
- Advised Marlet Property Group on its €384 million financing facility with AIG and Activate Capital to fund the development of over 1,100 apartments across locations in Dublin.
- Advised IPUT plc on a major redevelopment of an existing office block within Dublin’s CBD.
Ireland > Telecoms Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP has a strong reputation for handling contentious, regulatory, and transactional mandates for a broad spectrum of clients, including telecoms regulators, fixed line and mobile network operators, OTT providers, broadcasters, cable TV operators, and telecoms infrastructure companies. Rosaleen Byrne, Amy Brick, and Catherine Derrig head the contentious telecoms practice and regularly represent clients in proceedings before the Commercial Court. David Lydon and Garreth O’Brien are well-known for providing administrative and corporate law advice to domestic and international telecom clients. Laura Treacy is active in the telecoms regulatory landscape and advises on regulatory aspects of telecoms transactions, covering licensing, interconnection, spectrum allocation, and infrastructure access.Practice head(s):
Rosaleen Byrne; Catherine Derrig; Laura Treacy; David Lydon; Garreth O’Brien; Amy Brick
Other key lawyers:
Gregory Benson
Testimonials
‘The McCanns team are highly proactive and familiar with our sector. We have developed a very close working relationship, ensuring that everyone is comfortable expressing strongly held views on particular cases. Rosaleen Byrne and her team provide exceptional service to the extent that they often feel like an extension of our team. The team are always at hand to contribute advice whenever needed. They have made their technology available to us whenever needed. I cannot recommend them highly enough.’
‘All of the McCanns team are very personable and approachable. Rosaleen Byrne makes herself available, down to earth, approachable, and willing to listen carefully to contributions from everyone, including junior personnel, and will always make a point of seeking the view of everyone. The value of her litigation experience and expertise, the depth of her knowledge, and her ability to consider the broader picture of her client is immeasurable.’
‘Gregory Benson is relentless in ensuring that the lawyers are fully familiar with the complex technical terminology, nuances, and jargon used within our particular industry and ensuring that our position is expressed clearly and accurately. His attention to detail and planning in our cases has ensured that we are ready to react quickly when necessary. Amy Brick brings a thoughtful, balanced, and measured approach to our litigation cases.’
‘Expert advisors in the telecoms sector, a female-led diverse team. Commercial and strategic.’
‘Stand out partners: Catherine Derrig, Rosaleen Byrne and Amy Brick.’
‘Catherine Derrig is an exceptional leader in the telecoms litigation arena in Ireland. She has been involved in the leading cases in this arena and is a true expert. She stands out because she has experience, expertise, professionalism, efficiency and passion for her work.’
Key clients
ComReg
Vodafone
Nostra
AMP Capital Investors (UK) Limited
ESB
Work highlights
- Advised ComReg on a number of statutory appeals in the commercial list of the High Court.
- Advised Vodafone on its intervention as a notice party in the statutory appeal brought by Three against a decision by ComReg.
- Advised AMP Capital Investors (UK) Limited on the sale of Towercom Limited by AMP as infrastructure manager of the IIF.
Ireland > Transport Tier 1
The multi-disciplinary transport team at McCann FitzGerald LLP is equipped to provide ‘exceptionally tailored‘ advice to clients throughout the sector, with notable expertise in advising state authorities on procurement, contractual and financing matters relating to bus and rail services and road infrastructure. The firm also has an impressive offering in the aviation sphere, where it is particularly well regarded for its ability to act as lead counsel on complex aviation finance deals. Catherine Deane, Hilary Marren, Georgina O’Riordan, Joe Fay, Richard Gill, Ian Payne and Laura Deignan are among the names to note for aircraft financing and leasing, while practice head Eamonn O’Hanrahan and Liane Egan frequently advise on public transport projects.Practice head(s):
Eamonn O’Hanrahan
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Deane; Hilary Marren; Joe Fay; Georgina O’Riordan; Colm Fanning; Richard Gill; Laura Deignan; Ian Payne; Liane Egan
Testimonials
‘I find McCann FitzGerald’s knowledge of the industry to be of a high level. They give clients confidence in the advice they give.’
‘Laura Deignan in particular is very responsive and has great communication skills – she is simply fantastic.’
‘The team led by Catherine Deane, Georgina O’Riordan, Laura Deignan and Ian Payne is technically excellent.’
‘Exceptionally responsive, considerate, flexible and involved in any matter they are engaged on.’
‘The individuals at this firm provide an exceptionally tailored service depending on the specific matter or challenges or individuals involved without having any compromise on service or results.’
Key clients
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
National Transport Authority
Road Safety Authority
Galway County Council
Abelo Capital Aviation Management Limited
AerCap
AerDragon Aviation Partners Limited
AerSale Inc.
Aircastle Advisor LLC
Altavair/Guggenheim
Altitude Investors DACf
Apollo Global Management
ASL Aviation
Avia Solutions Group (ASG) PLC
Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi
BBAM Aviation Services Limited
BOC Aviation Leasing
Calliston GmbH & Co. Beteiligungs KG
Cavic Aviation Leasing (Ireland) Co. DAC
CDB Aviation Leasing
Challey Limited
CHC Group LLC
CIAF Leasing
Credit Agricole
Delaware Life Insurance Company
Deutsche Bank AG
Development Bank of Singapore Ltd
DNB Bank ASA
Doric Asset Finance GmbH & Co. KG
DVB Bank SE
Dynam Japan Holding Holdings Co., Ltd
EAVF II Aircraft Holdings Limited
EMP Aviation Ireland Limited
Fexco
FGL Aircraft Ireland (FUYO)
Fly Leasing Limited
FPG Amentum
Genesis Aircraft Services Limited
Guardian Holdings Limited
ING Bank N.V., Singapore Branch
Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Limited
KKR Altitude Holdings L.P.
Magnetar Capital
MUFG Bank, Ltd
NGF Overseas Aircraft Limited
Nordic Aviation Capital
Odeon International Holding B.V.
ORIX Aviation Systems Limited
Pembroke Capital/Standard Chartered Bank
Rockton AB
SAIC Holdings Limited
SAS
SATO Aviation Capital
Security Benefits Life Insurance Company
Sierra Echo Aircraft Leasing Limited
Sirius Aviation Capital Holdings Limited
Sky Aero Management Limited
Skyworks Leasing (Ireland) Limited
SMBC Aviation Capital
SolÉir Aviation Capital
ST Aerospace Resources Pte. Ltd
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
TATA SIA Airlines Limited (operating as Vistara)
Titan Aviation
Trustmark National Bank
Vistara
Viva Aerobus
Vueling Airlines, S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised Transport Infrastructure Ireland on the deferral of certain increases in tolls charged across eight PPP toll roads.
- Advised the National Transport Authority on its Connecting Ireland rural transport plan.
- Advised AerCap in connection with its offering of $1 billion aggregate principal amount of the 5.750% unsecured senior notes due 2028.
Ireland > White-collar crime Tier 1
McCann FitzGerald LLP’s white-collar crime team acts for regulators and regulated entities in complex regulatory and business crime-related investigations and disputes. One key area of strength for the team is its expertise in fraud and asset tracing affairs leading to a steady stream of instructions to handle cross-border criminal and fraudulent disputes. Audrey Byrne specialises in international litigation and investigations and jointly heads the team with Megan Hooper, who has extensive expertise advising financial institutions on both regulatory and criminal investigations. Experienced litigator Catherine Derrig has been involved in a number of corporate fraud investigations of late, while Donal Hamilton focuses on contentious issues and investigations involving employees and whistleblowing. Michael Coonan, Rosaleen Byrne and Bébhinn Bollard are other key contacts.Practice head(s):
Megan Hooper; Audrey Byrne
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They have a sophisticated sanctions advisory and litigation practice, with insightful views on the regulators’ thought processes.’
‘We work with Audrey Byrne mainly. She has deep knowledge, a keen eye for detail, and excellent client handling skills whilst also being fun to work with.’
Key clients
Raidió Teilifís Éireann
Mediahuis Ireland Group Limited
Trafalgar Trafhold Limited, Instantania Holdings Limited, Kamara Limited and Bairiki Incorporated
Work highlights
- Advised Mediahuis Ireland Group Limited on a number of regulatory challenges, including an ODCE investigation.
- Assisted Raidió Teilifís Éireann with the preparation of a report on certain voluntary severance schemes operated by the national broadcaster.
- Advised a group of companies, including Trafalgar Trafold Limited, on cross-border proceedings for damages and injunctive relief.
Ireland > Tax Tier 2
McCann FitzGerald LLP is at the forefront of structured finance, securitisation and aviation finance matters. The tax team has also advised on a series of headline cross-border M&A transactions and private equity investments, along with joint ventures and agreements relating to renewable energy projects. Alan Heuston is a prominent practitioner in M&A transactions, reorganisations, restructurings and migrations. Eleanor MacDonagh is a leading name in financial services tax, especially international tax planning through Ireland. Deirdre Barnicle was promoted to consultant in 2023 and is head of tax compliance services. The team is building its standing in transfer pricing with senior associate James Quirke to the fore.Practice head(s):
Eleanor MacDonagh; Alan Heuston; Deirdre Barnicle
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They have strength in depth – very efficient and responsive – most importantly practical and solution driven.’
‘I consider Eleanor MacDonagh to be the best tax practitioner I have come across – she knows the law, but is practical and solution driven.’
‘Tax and corporate departments working seamlessly together to provide holistic advice and support. A genuine interest in understanding the workings of the client’s business.’
‘Alan Heuston – very personable and responsive. Deep knowledge of his practice area. Close working relationship with other departments was very evident.’
‘Eleanor MacDonagh at McCann FitzGerald is a very strong tax expert with a deep knowledge of Irish taxation.’
‘Eleanor MacDonagh is very responsive and provides great advice.’
Key clients
Deutsche Bank AG London Branch
Magnetar Financial (UK) LLP
Aercap
Copa Airlines
Investcorp
Urbeo Residential ICAV
WeWork
AXA Real Estate Investment Managers UK Limited
Nordic Aviation Capital
BWG Group
Coillte
Pollen Street Capital
An Post
Lioncor Developments
Citibank
Arrow Global Limited
Primary Health Properties REIT
Ardstone
Irish Life Investment Managers
Electricity Supply Board
Housing Finance Agency
Viva Aerobus
Huuuge Games group
SMBC Aviation Capital Limited
Central Bank of Ireland
Hammerson Plc
Willis Tower Watson
SSEF
Peal Capital Partners Group
Allied Irish Banks (AIB)
Harvest CLO Platform
Work highlights
- Advised JP Morgan on its acquisition of Cork-based Global Shares.
- Advised Electricity Supply Board (ESB) on its landmark agreement with the Danish wind energy company, Ørsted, to jointly develop an Irish offshore wind portfolio.
- Advised Pfizer in connection with the Irish aspects of its acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Company.
McCann FitzGerald LLP > Firm Profile
Firm overview: With almost 600 people, including 450 lawyers and professional staff, McCann FitzGerald LLP is one of Ireland’s premier law firms. We offer expert, forward-thinking legal counsel to clients in Ireland and internationally. The firm is a full service firm, divided broadly into four main groupings of corporate, banking and financial services, disputes and real estate (including construction). We also operate industry sector and specialist practice groups which comprise professionals from the different groupings.
Main areas of practice
Corporate: Partners 19 (+2 consultants); fee-earners 68
The corporate group has extensive experience in advising on corporate and commercial transactions including some of the most complex and innovative M&A transactions and equity offerings, often with a cross-border element.
- Advised Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. acquisition of a €5.7bn mortgage business from NatWest Group.
- Advised on Project Fastnet – sale of SCB Aviation Finance Leasing Business to AviLease worth US$3.6bn equity value (US$700m cash).
- Advised Cordiant Digital Infrastructure, in connection with its acquisition of, Speed Fibre Group. Circa $205m (Enterprise Value).
Contact: Stephen FitzSimons
Tel: +353 1 611 9117
Email: stephen.fitzsimons@mccannfitzgerald.com
Finance: Partners 24 (+2 of counsel and 2 consultants); fee-earners 72
The finance group advises on the full range of banking and financial services activities in the Irish market as well as internationally where there is an Irish nexus. McCann FitzGerald LLP specialises in advising on innovative financing transactions and complex regulatory issues.
- Advised AerCap in connection with its offering of $1bn aggregate principal amount of the 5.750% unsecured senior notes due 2028.
- Advised Sky Leasing on the Irish law aspects of its sale of Sky Fund I Irish, Ltd. and its subsidiaries to Dubai Aerospace Capital.
- Advised SMBC Aviation Capital in relation to its sale of $50m of 2.65% senior unsecured notes.
Contact: Georgina O’Riordan
Tel: +353 1 607 1461
Email: georgina.oriordan@mccannfitzgerald.com
Disputes: Partners 22 (+3 consultants); fee-earners 67
The group advises on many of the major complex cases before the Irish Courts in the financial, corporate and state sectors and is often the first port of call for major corporates who find themselves in a dispute or who require advice on a matter that may become contentious.
- Advising SMBC Aviation Capital, the world’s second largest aircraft lessor, in Commercial Court proceedings in which it seeks an indemnity from its insurers (16 different insurers across multiple jurisdictions, including Lloyds insurers).
- Acting for the Central Bank in relation to the application of the Russian sanctions regime to winding up proceedings and a directions application brought in respect of what is likely to be the biggest liquidation in the history of the Irish state.
- Acted for IBRC in its action against EY, the former auditors of Anglo Irish Bank claiming damages for breach of contract, negligence and breach of duty in relation to EY’s carrying out the audit of Anglo’s financial statements and its failure to identify certain transactions carried out by them.
Contact: Michael Murphy
Tel: +353 1 611 9142
Email: michael.murphy@mccannfitzgerald.com
Real estate and construction: Partners 15 (+1 consultant), fee-earners 57
Offering one of the largest real estate and construction offerings in the jurisdiction, the group is known for its integrated approach to complex transactions and projects. Covering the traditional acquisitions, disposals, lettings and finance deals, the Group also has huge experience on complex projects work (including loan portfolio acquisitions and sales such as Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c acquisition of 2 portfolios from Ulster Bank), re-structuring, security and enforcement, tax-based deals and construction schemes, as well as construction disputes, for domestic and international companies.
- Advising Diageo on the construction of its state of the art carbon neutral brewery, which will be the second largest brewery in Ireland.
- Advising Ballymore Group on the development of 12 acres of land at St James’s Gate into Dublin’s first Zero Carbon District, comprising new residential, commercial and leisure uses all set within over two acres of new public spaces and pedestrian streets.
- Advising Hudson Advisors on their large residential and commercial development land-banks at Cherrywood, Adamstown and Portmarnock in Dublin.
- Advised Marlet Property Group on its €384m financing facility with AIG and Activate Capital to fund the development of over 1,100 apartments across locations in Dublin including Grand Canal Harbour in Dublin 8 and Claremont in Howth as well as advising Marlet on their €100m+ financing of the Shipping Office in Dublin 2.
Contact: Donal O’Raghallaigh
Tel: +353 1 607 1268
Email: donal.oraghallaigh@mccannfitzgerald.com
Managing partner: Stephen Holst
Number of partners: 80
Number of lawyers: 450
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing Partner | Stephen Holst | ||
Aviation and asset finance | Hilary Marren | ||
Aviation and asset finance | Georgina O'Riordan | ||
Aviation and asset finance | Joe Fay | ||
Aviation and asset finance | Richard Gill | ||
Aviation and asset finance | Ian Payne | ||
Aviation and Asset finance | Laura Deignan | ||
Competition, Regulated Markets, EU and Trade Law | Laura Treacy | ||
Construction / Public Procurement | Kevin Kelly | ||
Construction | Stephen Proctor | ||
Construction | Barrett Chapman | ||
Construction | Sean Carr | ||
Construction / Public Procurement | Orlaith Sheehy | ||
Head of Corporate / Capital Markets | Stephen FitzSimons | ||
Corporate / Capital Markets | Gill Lonan | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | Niall Best | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | Ben Gaffikin | ||
Corporate/ Mergers and Acquisitions | Stephen Fuller | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | David Lydon | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | Brendan Murphy | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | John Neeson | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | Garreth O'Brien | ||
Corporate / Mergers and Acquisitions | Alan Fuller | ||
Disputes | Bebhinn Bollard | ||
Disputes | David Hurley | ||
Disputes | Ciara Ryan | ||
Head of Disputes / Restructuring and insolvency | Michael Murphy | ||
Disputes | Michael Coonan | ||
Disputes | Brian Quigley | ||
Disputes / Alternative Dispute Resolution | Helen Kilroy | ||
Disputes / Competition Law / Telecoms | Rosaleen Byrne | ||
Disputes / Competition Law / Telecoms | Catherine Derrig | ||
Disputes / Planning and environmental | Michelle Doyle | ||
Disputes / Product Liability | Roddy Bourke | ||
Disputes / Public Sector | Seán Barton | ||
Disputes / White Collar Crime | Audrey Byrne | ||
Disputes / White Collar Crime | Megan Hooper | ||
Employment | Donal Hamilton | ||
Employment | Mary Brassil | ||
Employment | Terence McCrann | ||
Energy and natural resources / Mergers and Acquisitions | Valerie Lawlor | ||
Finance / DCM /Structured Finance | Fergus Gillen | ||
DCM / Finance | Éamon Ó Cúiv | ||
Finance | Tom Dane | ||
Finance | Eamon de Valera | ||
Finance | Aidan Gleeson | ||
Finance | Philip Murphy | ||
Finance | Niall McDowell | ||
Finance | Stuart McCarron | ||
FinTech / Regulatory | Josh Hogan | ||
FSR / Derivatives | Judith Lawless | ||
FSR / Knoweldge | Martin O'Neill | ||
Head of New York Office/ Corporate /Mergers and Acquisitions | Gary McSharry | ||
Head of London Office / Securitisation and structured finance/Investment Funds | Hugh Beattie | ||
Head of Real Estate | Donal O Raghallaigh | ||
Insurance / FSR | Darragh Murphy | ||
Intellectual Property / Disputes | Fiona O'Beirne | ||
Intellectual Property / Disputes | Shane O'Brien | ||
Investment funds | Mark White | ||
Investment Funds | Morgan Dunne | ||
Investment funds | Iain Ferguson | ||
Mergers and Acquisitions / Capital Markets | David Byers | ||
Mergers and Acquisitions / Energy | Rory O'Malley | ||
Pensions and Incentives | Eleanor Cunningham | ||
Planning and Environmental | Brendan Slattery | ||
Project finance / PPP | Eamonn O'Hanrahan | ||
Project finance / PPP | Colm Fanning | ||
Real Estate | Jennifer Halpin | ||
Real Estate | Richard Leonard | ||
Real estate | Shane Fahy | ||
Real Estate | Shane Sweeney | ||
Real estate | Jim Murphy | ||
Real Estate | Emily Mac Nicholas | ||
Restructuring and insolvency | Lisa Smyth | ||
Restructuring and Insolvency | David O'Dea | ||
Securitisation and structured finance / DCM | Adrian Farrell | ||
Tax | Eleanor MacDonagh | ||
Tax | Alan Heuston | ||
Technology and innovation | Doug McMahon | ||
Technology and innovation | Paul Lavery | ||
Technology and innovation | Adam Finlay |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Ms Catherine Austin | Catherine is a Consultant in our Employment, Pensions and Incentives Group. She… | View Profile | |
Ms Deirdre Barnicle | Deirdre is a consultant with the firm. She specialises in Irish taxation… | View Profile | |
Mr Sean Barton | Seán is a specialist in administrative and public law. He advises public… | View Profile | |
Mr Niall Best | Niall is a partner in our New York Office and specialises in… | View Profile | |
Ms Bébhinn Bollard | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Roddy Bourke | Roddy’s practice includes: commercial disputes, including international and jurisdictional issues defending product… | View Profile | |
Ms Mary Brassil | Mary is a partner in McCann FitzGerald’s Employment Group. She advises employers… | View Profile | |
Ms Amy Brick | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr David Byers | David is a corporate lawyer, specialising in mergers and acquisitions, public company… | View Profile | |
Ms Rosaleen Byrne | Rosaleen is a partner in the firm’s Disputes Group. Rosaleen has almost… | View Profile | |
Ms Audrey Byrne | Audrey’s practice centres on commercial disputes and investigations, with a focus on… | View Profile | |
Seán Carr | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Barrett Chapman | Barrett is a partner of the Construction Group practising in all areas… | View Profile | |
Mr Michael Coonan | Michael represents and advises clients in the resolution of a variety of… | View Profile | |
Ms Eleanor Cunningham | Eleanor is a Partner and Head of the Pensions & Incentives Group.… | View Profile | |
Mr Tom Dane | Tom works in the Corporate Banking Team and acts for both lenders… | View Profile | |
Ms Laura Deignan | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Catherine Derrig | Catherine’s practice involves advising clients in a wide range of contentious matters… | View Profile | |
Ms Michelle Doyle | Michelle specialises in advising on the preparation and execution of major infrastructural… | View Profile | |
Mr Morgan Dunne | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Shane Fahy | Shane is a partner in McCann FitzGerald’s Real Estate team and is… | View Profile | |
Mr Colm Fanning | Colm handles a range of general banking and financial work but has… | View Profile | |
Mr Adrian Farrell | Adrian advises on all aspects of banking and finance matters, including corporate… | View Profile | |
Mr Joe Fay | Joe specialises in banking and asset finance transactions and has advised many… | View Profile | |
Mr Iain Ferguson | Iain is a partner in our Investment Management Group. He trained and… | View Profile | |
Mr Adam Finlay | Adam is a partner in the firm’s Technology & Innovation Group and… | View Profile | |
Mr Stephen FitzSimons | Stephen is Head of our Corporate Group and specialises in mergers and… | View Profile | |
Mr Stephen Fuller | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Alan Fuller | Alan’s practice includes mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital, joint… | View Profile | |
Mr Ben Gaffikin | Ben has been a partner in McCann FitzGerald’s Corporate Group since 2005,… | View Profile | |
Mr Richard Gill | Richard has extensive experience in advising on cross border aircraft portfolio financings,… | View Profile | |
Mr Fergus Gillen | Fergus focuses on a wide range of debt finance work, with a… | View Profile | |
Mr Aidan Gleeson | Of Counsel | View Profile | |
Ms Jennifer Halpin | Jennifer specialises in advising on the sale, purchase and leasing of commercial… | View Profile | |
Mr Donal Hamilton | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Alan Heuston | Alan works on the tax aspects of mergers and acquisitions, reorganisations, restructurings,… | View Profile | |
Mr Josh Hogan | Josh is a partner who specialises in Financial Services Regulation and Fintech.… | View Profile | |
Mr Stephen Holst | Stephen is our Managing Partner. Before commencing as Managing Partner, Stephen had… | View Profile | |
Ms Megan Hooper | Megan is an experienced commercial litigation solicitor and has, since February 2009,… | View Profile | |
Mr David Hurley | David has a wide range of experience in the defence of tort,… | View Profile | |
Mr Kevin Kelly | Kevin Kelly leads the firm’s Construction Group. He has advised private sector… | View Profile | |
Ms Helen Kilroy | Helen’s practice is in the field of commercial litigation, mediation and related… | View Profile | |
Mr Paul Lavery | Paul is the head of the firm’s Technology and Innovation Group and… | View Profile | |
Ms Judith Lawless | Judith has broad experience in general banking & financial services and has… | View Profile | |
Ms Valerie Lawlor | Valerie is a partner in our Corporate Group and Head of the… | View Profile | |
Mr Richard Leonard | Richard has extensive experience in the purchase, financing, letting and disposal of… | View Profile | |
Ms Gill Lohan | Gill specialises in equity capital markets and in particular IPOs and equity… | View Profile | |
Mr David Lydon | David has considerable experience across the whole range of corporate transactions and… | View Profile | |
Ms Maeve Mac Dermott Casement | Senior Associate | View Profile | |
Ms Emily Mac Nicholas | Emily advises on all aspects of the acquisition, disposal, leasing and financing… | View Profile | |
Ms Eleanor MacDonagh | Eleanor has been practicing since 1992 and specialises in taxation law. She led the expansion of… | View Profile | |
Ms Hilary Marren | Hilary is a partner in the firm’s Finance Group, specialising in asset… | View Profile | |
Ms Sinead Martyn | Senior Associate | View Profile | |
Mr Stuart McCarron | Stuart is a partner in the Finance Group. Stuart has specialist knowledge… | View Profile | |
Mr Terence McCrann | Terence advises employers on all aspects of employment, equality and industrial relations… | View Profile | |
Mr Niall McDowell | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Jamie McGee | Jamie is a Partner in our Construction Group. | View Profile | |
Mr Douglas McMahon | Doug is a partner in the firm’s Technology and Innovation Group. He… | View Profile | |
Ms Anna Moran | Anna has specific expertise in advising domestic and international fund promoters, asset… | View Profile | |
Mr Darragh Murphy | Darragh is a partner in the firm’s Finance Group, specialising in regulatory… | View Profile | |
Mr Brendan Murphy | Brendan advises clients on a wide range of corporate matters with a… | View Profile | |
Mr Jim Murphy | Jim is widely recognised as one of Ireland’s leading practitioners in the… | View Profile | |
Mr Michael Murphy | Michael is Head of both McCann FitzGerald’s Restructuring & Insolvency and Disputes… | View Profile | |
Mr Philip Murphy | Philip is a partner in our Finance Group with particular expertise in… | View Profile | |
Mr John Neeson | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Éamon Ó Cuív | Éamon advises clients on a wide range of finance matters including debt… | View Profile | |
Mr Donal O Raghallaigh | Donal is experienced in all aspects of commercial real estate. He has… | View Profile | |
Ms Fiona O'Beirne | Fiona has practised for over 25 years in the area commercial litigation… | View Profile | |
Mr Garreth O'Brien | Garreth is a partner in our Corporate Group and has overall responsibility… | View Profile | |
Mr Shane O'Brien | Shane trained in McCann FitzGerald and is a member of our Disputes… | View Profile | |
Mr David O'Dea | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Eamonn O'Hanrahan | Eamonn leads our Projects Group, and has particular experience in project finance,… | View Profile | |
Mr Rory O'Malley | Rory advises on a broad range of corporate matters, including mergers &… | View Profile | |
Ms Georgina O'Riordan | Georgina is Head of our Finance Group and her practice focuses on… | View Profile | |
Ian Payne | Partner | View Profile | |
Sarah Pickering | Sarah is experienced in advising prominent domestic and international financial institutions, non-bank… | View Profile | |
Mr Stephen Proctor | Stephen specialises in construction law and acts for both public and private… | View Profile | |
Mr Brian Quigley | Brian specialises in commercial disputes with a focus on financial services disputes… | View Profile | |
Mr James Quirke | Senior Associate | View Profile | |
Ms Ciara Ryan | Ciara has a broad range of litigation and dispute resolution experience advising… | View Profile | |
Ms Orlaith Sheehy | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Brendan Slattery | With almost twenty years’ experience in the areas of environment, planning and… | View Profile | |
Ms Lisa Smyth | Lisa has experience of advising in restructuring, examinership, receivership, liquidation and personal… | View Profile | |
Mr Tony Spratt | Tony advises clients on the structuring and establishment of every type of… | View Profile | |
Mr Shane Sweeney | Shane deals with all facets of commercial property work in Ireland. He… | View Profile | |
Ms Laura Treacy | Laura leads our Antitrust and Competition practice. She has broad experience across… | View Profile | |
Mr Mark White | Mark is Chair. He advises a wide variety of clients who are… | View Profile | |
Mr Eamon de Valera | Eamon specialises in the areas of acquisition finance, property and development finance… | View Profile |
Languages
French German Irish Portuguese Spanish Italian JapaneseOther
Other offices : London Other offices : New York Other offices : Brussels Number of lawyers/professional staff : 450Diversity
At McCann FitzGerald we recognise equality, diversity and inclusion as key drivers of high-performing organisations and of effective and positive relationships. Two partners have responsibility for the strategic development and oversight of relevant initiatives.
We engaged the Centre of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion at Dublin City University to conduct an anonymous firm-wide D&I survey to gather quantitative data and learn about relevant experiences/issues within the firm. This proved a worthwhile and insightful exercise, providing baseline data allowing us to set goals in priority areas and track progress moving forward. The partners are committed to introducing next generation D&I policies and initiatives reflecting the outputs of that research and any deficiencies identified.
The outputs of our current D&I initiatives include:
- Our female representation at partner level is 30% and in senior management is well in excess of this number.
- We are an all equity partnership and so our 30% figure is high by industry standards.
- Our female representation at senior associate level is 62%
- Our solicitor pipeline is 58% female.
- Our Evolve coaching programme supports female employees transitioning back to work from maternity leave and feeds the female leadership pipeline through retention and growth of talent.
- Our structured mentoring programme and agile working initiatives seek to address the gender imbalance at senior levels and to support work/life integration.
- We have developed inclusive recruitment processes that acknowledge the diversity of applicants/candidates to the firm and aim to alleviate unconscious bias. Our recruitment strategies are designed to reach candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability or socio-economic background.
- We have engaged with Diversity In Law, a network focused on supporting and developing the talent of minority Law students of high potential, irrespective of their personal or economic barriers and is a response to the lack of representation of minority lawyers in Ireland.
- We encourage cognitive diversity in the management of the firm generally and endeavour to structure decision-making and strategy to leverage the diverse skills, strengths, experiences and perspectives across the firm.
- We have an active Gender Pay Gap Committee that meets regularly to review our action plans and we are well prepared for implementation of the Gender Pay Gap legislation.
- We host/support a range of events to support International Women’s Day.
- We partner with BeLonG to during Pride Week and are founding members of the Outlaw Network, whose mission is to promote and drive the inclusion of LGBT+ people across the Irish legal community.
- In September 2020 the firm held its first Anti-Racism Programme. We anticipate it will be an annual event.
- Chinese New Year and other cultural events during the year are celebrated.
- We have Gender Neutral and Accessible Toilets.
- Our pro bono work has a focus on gender and diversity issues in terms of the initiatives the firm supports and pursues. The firm is one of three sustaining partners of Public Interest Law Alliance which itself partners with not for profit organisations, community groups and independent law centres that work on issues benefiting marginalised and disadvantaged people.
Diversity
At McCann FitzGerald LLP, we are committed to ensuring our workplace reflects the diversity of our wider society. It is a core policy of the firm to nurture a collaborative and inclusive environment which empowers our people to fulfil their ambition and helps them to develop and grow. Specific achievements of this policy during 2023 include:
- Appointed our first dedicated Head of Responsible Business;
- Published our first Responsible Business strategy which specifically addresses our DE&I goals;
- Established DE&I sub-committees for each of our agreed pillars – Gender, LGBTQ+, Race/ethnicity, Social mobility, Disability and neurodiversity – to drive programme implementation;
- Renewed our Diversity accreditation from the Irish Centre for Diversity;
- Set an ambition and target that, by 2030, we would have not less than 40% female partners (published as part of our most recent gender pay gap report);
- 57% of our Of Counsel promotions were female;
- Delivered a 12-month mentorship programme for our senior female associates – MF ConneX;
- Enhanced our Family Leave policies including paternity leave, maternity leave, fertility treatment leave and pregnancy loss leave;
- Refreshed our Evolve programme supporting colleagues returning from maternity and adoption leave;
- Delivered unconscious bias training and formally adopted strengths-based assessments as a key tool in our recruitment processes;
- Delivered on a commitment that at least 10% of interviewees for our traineeship programme come from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds;
- Continued philanthropic support of university access programmes such as the Trinity Access Programme and the DCU Access Service; and
- Continued our engagement with the Trinity College for People with Intellectual Disabilities (TCPID) and hosted students on placements.
- Asset finance
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Construction
- Data privacy and data protection
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Energy and natural resources
- EU and competition
- Fintech
- Healthcare and life sciences
- Information technology
- Insolvency and corporate restructuring
- Insurance
- Intellectual property
- Investment funds
- Media and entertainment
- Pensions and employee benefits
- Planning and environment
- Projects and PPP
- Public sector
- Real estate
- Telecoms
- Transport
- White-collar crime
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Tax