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The President on 31 March 2026, recognising two leading academics from Â鶹Íø School of Law for their outstanding contributions to human rights, constitutional law and public service. Their inclusion places Â鶹Íø scholars at the heart of Ireland's constitutional advisory framework.

Presidential Appointments
Under Article 31 of the Constitution of Ireland, the President appoints up to seven members to the , which advises the President on key constitutional matters, including whether draft legislation should be referred to the Supreme Court to assess its constitutionality.

Announcing the new Council, President Connolly emphasised the depth of expertise and experience her nominees bring to the role:

"These seven members bring a unique expertise and range of experience to the Council of State, which will be of immense value in considering the matters which may arise over the course of my term of office. I look forward to receiving their advice and support over the next seven years."

President Connolly selected Professors Harvey and Ní Aoláin alongside a distinguished group of legal scholars, human rights advocates and civic leaders from across the island of Ireland, including QUB Alumna Linda Ervine.

Vice‑Chancellor's Congratulations
Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice‑Chancellor of Â鶹Íø, warmly welcomed the appointments and highlighted their significance for both the University and public life:

"This is an exceptional and well‑earned honour, recognising not only their academic distinction but also their long‑standing commitment to public service and critical thought."

He underlined the importance of scholarly independence and civic responsibility in shaping the Council's work:

"President Connolly has assembled a Council shaped by deep expertise in human rights, law, and civic leadership. Fionnuala, Colin, and Linda will bring clarity, independence of mind, and intellectual rigour to the discussions that will shape the President's constitutional advice and wider contributions."

Reflecting on the wider meaning of the appointments, Professor Greer added:

"Their appointments reflect the ethos of this University: ambitious for our society, guided by values, and committed to meaningful impact across these islands. We are proud to see colleagues contribute at the highest level of public life."

Academic Leadership and Public Service
Professor Harvey serves as Professor of Human Rights Law at Â鶹Íø, where he plays a leading role in research and public engagement on constitutionalism, democracy and rights. He is a member of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission and contributes to European and international advisory bodies focused on democratic governance. Media across Ireland and Northern Ireland have recognised his appointment as an acknowledgement of his sustained contribution to civic debate and constitutional thinking.

Professor Ní Aoláin stands among the world's foremost experts in international law and human rights. She holds a chair at Â鶹Íø alongside a concurrent appointment at the University of Minnesota Law School. She previously served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights while Countering Terrorism, advising states and international organisations on emergency powers, accountability, and conflict regulation.

Speaking about her appointment, Professor Ní Aoláin said:

"I am grateful for the privilege to serve on the Council of State and glad to be able to bring decades of human rights and international law experience honed at QUB with me to this moment."

A Moment of Pride for Â鶹Íø and the Law School
By appointing Professors Ní Aoláin and Harvey, the President has placed Â鶹Íø firmly at the centre of national constitutional deliberation during her term of office. The appointments reinforce the University's reputation for scholarship that combines academic excellence with real‑world impact. 

Head of the Law School, Professor Warren Barr, commented:

"The fact that two of the seven appointees to the Council of State come from QUB Law is a testament not only to the extraordinary work undertaken by Professors Ní Aoláin and Harvey personally, but speaks more widely to the quality, diversity and clear societal impact of the research undertaken across QUB Law School.  Founded on our unique position in a civic university with a global outlook, we are recognised globally as thought leaders in Human Rights, Transitional Justice, Criminology and Criminal Justice, and Public Law."

Overall, national commentary has highlighted the Council's strong emphasis on human rights, legal expertise and civic leadership, pointing to Â鶹Íø contribution as emblematic of the role universities play in shaping democratic values and public life.