At a private ceremony during the 4th World Bar Conference in Belfast, the President of the Australian Bar Association, Mr Tom Bathurst QC, presented Honorary Membership of the Australian Bar Association to Terra Firma Chairman Roy Martin QC, the former Dean of the Faculty of Advocates and co-chair of the International Council of Advocates and Barristers.

In making the presentation, Tom Bathurst QC acknowledged the significant contribution made by Roy Martin QC to the strengthening and preservation of the independent referral bar. He noted that the award of honorary membership made for exceptional service to justice and the rule of law is due recognition of Martin QC’s passionate and fearless advocacy on behalf of the independent bar. In particular, he highlighted Martin QC’s work in relation to the Edinburgh Declaration Trust which has, for example, provided material aid to support advocates seeking to reinstate the rule of law in Zimbabwe.

Roy Martin QC joins Malcolm Wallis SC (South Africa), The Hon. Mr Justice Frank Clarke (Ireland) and Major Dan Mori USMC (United States) as honorary members of the Australian Bar.

Tom Bathurst QC said that “by accepting this award, Roy Martin QC has done the Australian Bar Association a great honour. His leadership as co-chair of the International Council for Barristers and Advocates is a shining example of dedication, commitment and professionalism. He is a worthy recipient of the highest honour that the Australian Bar can give to any barrister or advocate from another jurisdiction”.