Legal academic Dr Vicky Conway has died.

The DCU-based legal scholar was a member of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland and served two terms as a member of the Policing Authority.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee paid tribute, saying “Vicky’s voice has been a prominent one in relation to policing and criminal justice, and was always one of conviction and challenge.

“Her deep commitment to the human rights of the most vulnerable was evident in all her work.”

The minister expressed her heartfelt condolences to Vicky’s family and loved ones, her friends, colleagues and all her students.

“Vicky’s untimely passing has shocked and saddened us all.

“May she rest in peace,” she said.

The Policing Authority said in a statement that it was deeply saddened to learn of the death of its former member, Dr Conway. 

Contribution

“Vicky was appointed to the first board of the Authority in January 2016 and made an invaluable contribution to its work. 

“Vicky brought unique expertise and insight to the oversight of policing in Ireland, drawing on her significant academic work in this area – which itself drew on her keen attention to the experiences of the many people she engaged with to produce that work,” the body said today.

Chair Bob Collins said her contribution to policing was rooted not only in academic curiosity but in a genuine desire to ensure that everyone’s engagement with the Garda Síochána, in particular those most vulnerable, was rooted in a respect for their humanity and a vindication of their human rights. 

Dr Conway’s contribution to, and impact on, the work of the Authority and the oversight of policing is an important legacy for which we should all be very grateful, he added.

Funeral arrangements are expect later.