Derek Walsh

Taking place at Limerick’s Jackman Park at 6pm, the match will raise funds for Limerick Suicide Watch, with nearly €3,500 already raised via Gofundme.

Derek Walsh, president of the LSBA, told Irish Legal News: “Mental health and wellbeing is very much at the forefront of society’s concerns, particularly since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the service that the Limerick Suicide Watch provides is invaluable.

“The volunteers take time from their busy professional and personal lives and patrol the riverside several nights a week to provide support to those in distress and who may be contemplating suicide. They are a volunteer group that depends on donations from the public and fund-raising events to help maintain training, safety and day-to-day operations.”

He added: “There has have always had an excellent relationship between An Garda Síochána and solicitors and there is mutual respect for their respective roles in the administration of justice.

“We are really looking forward to the match – it’s a great way to raise funds for a worthy charity and to get to know our friends and colleagues. There will be plenty of banter and friendly competition and we wish An Garda Síochána good luck, but not too much! I have no doubt it will become an annual event.

“The Limerick Solicitors Bar Association wish to thank An Garda Siochana for collaborating for this event. We also wish to thank Limerick District League for providing Jackman Park as the venue and also Limerick Fruit Suppliers who are providing refreshments and fruit for the match.”