The General Council of the Bar of Ireland (commonly known as The Bar of Ireland) is the representative body for the barristers' profession in Ireland. 

Governed by the Constitution of The Bar of Ireland, its roles include:

·         Considering, reporting upon and making representations as it considers necessary in all matters affecting the barristers' profession;

·         Playing a key role in the conduct and arrangement of the business of the profession; and

·         Securing and protecting the interests of the profession.

The legal profession in Ireland is split between solicitors and barristers, who hold separate but complementary roles. The Bar of Ireland is long established, and its members have acquired a reputation amongst solicitors, clients and members of the public at large as providing representation and advocacy of the highest professional standards. 

The principle that barristers are independent, owe an overriding duty to the proper administration of justice and that the interests of their clients are defended fearlessly in accordance with ethical duties are at the heart of the independent referral Bar.