The CIPD WRC Mock Adjudication Hearing National Series – North West Region – 22nd September 2026

Step inside a realistic WRC hearing and explore how complex workplace disputes are examined, challenged and resolved.

Join the CIPD in Ireland North West region, supported by Adare Trusted People Partners, for a practical and immersive WRC-style mock adjudication hearing that puts you at the heart of a realistic WRC hearing. Get an unfiltered insight into how complex workplace disputes can unfold and what HR professionals can do to manage them effectively.

Designed for HR professionals, people managers and employee relations practitioners, this national series uses a realistic case scenario to explore how workplace disputes are examined and resolved in practice.

Featuring a panel of leading HR and legal professionals, including a WRC Adjudication Officer, a barrister and experienced HR professionals, you’ll experience how a case really unfolds. Follow a live case from witness evidence and legal submissions through to cross-examination and adjudication and discover how current workplace trends are shaping employment law conversations in Ireland today.

Explore the workplace issues making headlines, including:

• probation and extended probation

• occupational health considerations

• neurodivergence and reasonable accommodation

• termination following probation

• protected disclosures

• the use of AI in submissions

• the growing influence of social media in workplace disputes

Whether you regularly manage employee relations cases or are building your confidence in this area, this is a valuable CPD opportunity to refresh your practical skills, strengthen your judgement and decision-making, and learn alongside peers in a supportive, safe and engaging environment.

Date: Tuesday, 22nd September 2026

Time: 4.00 pm – 6.00 pm

Location: Atlantic Technological University Sligo, Ash Lane, F91 YW50 Sligo

BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW

* Upon registration, participant details will be issued to both CIPD Ireland and Adare.

Why attend?

• Gain practical insight into the WRC adjudication process.

• See how employment law is applied to a realistic, multi-layered workplace dispute.

• Refresh your approach to probation, occupational health, protected disclosures, AI and social media issues.

• Build confidence in handling complex employee relations matters.

• Connect and learn with HR peers in your region.

Meet the CIPD in Ireland and Adare speakers

Derek McKay | Founder and Director (Executive) at Adare & Linea

Derek McKay, BBS, Chartered MCIPD, is an experienced Human Resource and Employment Law practitioner who has worked extensively in the private, not-for-profit and public sectors. Since founding Adare Human Resource Management in 2003, Derek has overseen the growth of the business to become one of Ireland’s leading HR, Employment Law and Industrial Relations Consultancies. In 2022, Derek changed roles from Managing Director to joining the Board of Directors. Derek regularly speaks at seminars for companies and associations throughout the country on HR and Employment related topics and contributes to numerous publications in this area also. Prior to setting up Adare Human Resource Management, Derek worked in the Human Resource Departments in a number of multinational organisations. Derek is currently a member of the CIPD National Committee and a member and former Chair of the Sustainable HRM Skillnet. Additionally, in his spare time, Derek contributes by volunteering as the Chairperson for the Marie Keating Foundation, a charity whose mission is to make cancer less frightening by enlightening and whose aim is to live in a world free from the fear of cancer.

David James Murphy | Solicitor and Adjudicator

David James Murphy is a solicitor specialising in employment law. In 2022 he was appointed as a WRC Adjudication Officer, leaving his position in an international corporate law firm. David continues to practice law through his own boutique solicitor’s practice focused on employment law, investigations and mediations. David began his career in industrial relations, working as a trade union official.

Katie Ridge | Head of Employer Relations at Adare

Katie Ridge, Chartered MCIPD and Barrister at Law, seamlessly integrates practical Human Resource expertise with a profound understanding of employment law and adept workplace investigation skills. With a demonstrated track record, she consistently assists organizations by delivering practical legal and professional advice, offering guidance that aligns seamlessly with operational needs. Specialising in workplace investigations, grievance, and disciplinary matters, Katie brings extensive experience in representing Organisations before the Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court. With a robust background supporting a diverse range of private, not-for-profit, and public sector entities, she leverages 15 years as a barrister in conjunction with a decade of HR roles to provide comprehensive support to clients. Katie’s unique blend of legal and HR proficiency positions her as a valuable resource for strategic decision-making in employment-related matters. ensuring holistic and effective support for organisational success. An adept employment law consultant, Katie specialises in providing comprehensive guidance on complex workplace legal matters. With a nuanced understanding of labour regulations, she ensures Organisations remain compliant while fostering a fair and inclusive work environment. Katie’s strategic counsel empowers businesses to navigate employment challenges seamlessly and in a commercial and practical manner.

Tommy Cummins | Head of Industrial Relations at Adare

Tommy Cummins assists unionised Organisations in the design, development and delivery of Organisational change through an Employee Relations framework, including redefinition of established IR processes and introduction of Pay and Reward structures to drive tangible productivity gain within the Organisation. Tommy worked for over 25 years in a senior HR capacity within diverse multinational organisations such as Fujitsu Microelectronics, IBM and AXA Insurance. His achievements have been recognised within the fields of IR and HR when he was an invited speaker at the previous IRN Conferences and also a Winner of the CIPD Watson Wyatt HR Innovation Award.