Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel, Northwood, Santry, Dublin 9 | 9th and 10th October 2026
MII ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2026: OVERVIEW
From Conflict to Connection: A Collaborative Vision for Mediation in Ireland
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Northwood, Santry, Dublin 9 | 9th and 10th October 2026
This year’s theme is ‘From Conflict to Connection: A Collaborative Vision for Mediation in Ireland, as we consider the intricacies and skills required after the parties have agreed to attend mediation. All of our speakers have been asked to share insights that will be of value to all mediators, so that delegates will gain knowledge from every session that may be applied by them in which ever sector they operate.
Book Here
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from some of the leading voices in the field and to be part of a vibrant professional community.
Join us at the MII Annual Conference—where ideas, expertise, and collaboration come together to shape the future of mediation.
Our associated event here: WHEN GOOD NEGOTIATORS CLOSE THE DEAL — READING PEOPLE, POWER, AND MACHINESA Full-Day Masterclass on What Really Drives Success (and Failure) at the Table
Organised by the Mediators’ Institute of Ireland in collaboration with Giuseppe De Palo, Mediator & Arbitrator, JAMS (New York)
Thursday, 8 October 2026 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Venue: The Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel, Northwood, Santry, Dublin 9, Ireland
WHY ATTEND?
- Gain fresh perspectives on mediation and conflict resolution from world-class experts
- Enhance your professional skills through engaging keynote sessions and discussions
- Connect with peers and expand your professional network
- Be inspired to apply new ways of thinking in your practice and organisation.
- Dedicated welcome session for new mediators and recently joined MII members.
- CPD Points are awarded to attendees.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Whether you are an experienced or recently qualified mediator, a professional working in HR, legal, or organisational development, or simply someone interested in improving communication and resolving conflict more effectively, this conference offers invaluable learning and connection opportunities.
CONFERENCE PROGRAMME (Subject to Schedule Changes)
Day 1: Friday 9th October
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09.30 |
Registration, Tea/Coffee and Networking |
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10.00 |
(Optional) New Mediators’ Welcome. Have you been an MII member or mediator for 2 years or less? Connect with us before the conference starts and we’ll connect you with each other and with more experienced mediators (including keynote speakers, the world-renowned Ken Cloke and Joan Goldsmith) AND we’ll provide you with information on how to get more out of this conference and your MII membership. |
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10.30
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Introduction and Housekeeping: Co-Chairs, Linda Devlin and Scott Alexander, set out how to ensure you get the best return on your investment of time at the conference. |
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10.35 |
President’s Address: Our President Andrea O’Neill reviews our past year and introduces several developments that will impact on MII members and others. |
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10.45 |
Ministerial Address: Jim O’Callaghan TD, Minister for Justice in Ireland, explains why he considers mediation a vital and integral part of legal systems in Ireland. |
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11.00 |
Mediating Globally and Leading Locally Parts 1 & 2 Part 1: Mediating Globally: The Politics of Mediation v the Mediation of Politics, led by Ken Cloke. |
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11.45 |
Tea/Coffee and Networking |
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12.15 |
Part 2: Leading Locally: The Mediator as a Leader v The Leader as a Mediator, led by Joan Goldsmith. |
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13.00 |
Q&A: Joan Goldsmith and Ken Cloke answer your remaining questions |
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13.15 |
Lunch and Networking |
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14.30 |
Welcome Back and Wake Up the Room with award‑winning athlete, community coach, and UC Fit founder, John Byrne, known for his leadership in building strength, confidence, and wellbeing. |
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14.45 |
This Sporting Life’s Lessons. Liam Moggan is widely regarded in sporting circles as the godfather of coaching and coach education in Ireland. He’s also one of the country’s best communicators. In this highly engaging session, Liam outlines parallels between conflict coaching in sport and the role of mediators in wider society. Includes Q&A. |
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15.45 |
Comfort Break |
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16.00 |
The Future of Mediation with Dr. Brendan Schütte |
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16.15 |
Mediation and Judicial Developments: High Court Judge, Justice Sara Phelan SC, sets out legal developments that highlight the growing importance of mediation in Ireland. Includes Q&A |
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17.00 |
40 years of FMS: Fiona McAuslan, Director of Family Mediation Services at the Legal Aid Board, sets out the importance of mediation to FMS in Ireland and how the symbiotic relationship between mediators and FMS has helped countless families on this island over the last 40 years. |
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17.15 |
Close |
Evening Activities
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18.00 |
Drinks Reception and Networking. |
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19.00 |
Awards: Generosity of Spirit Award and the Lifetime Achievement in Mediation Award, sponsored by Twenty One Twenty Nine; MII Workplace Mediation Short Story Competition 2026, sponsored by Dr. Brendan Schütte and Twenty One Twenty Nine. |
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19.30 |
Close |
Day 2: Saturday 10th October
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09.30 |
Welcome Back – Scott Alexander and Linda Devlin round-up key points from yesterday and highlight what to expect today. |
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09.35 |
A message from our Sponsor – TBC |
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09.45 |
Wake Up The Room with Caroline Kelly, Mindfulness Practitioner. |
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10.00 |
Live Role Play: AI and Mediation. Giuseppe De Palo, International Mediator, Arbitrator, and Neutral Evaluator brings to life a role play with some help from the audience and artificial intelligence. NOTE: All conference delegates can avail of a special rate for a one-day course run by Giuseppe on 8th October. |
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11.15 |
Tea/Coffee/Networking |
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11.40 |
Master Workshop with Ken Cloke and Joan Goldsmith – Facilitating Dialogue This is learning in action — a rare opportunity to witness and practise the craft of dialogue facilitation with one of the world’s leading voices in conflict resolution. In this immersive master workshop, renowned mediator Ken Cloke and Joan Goldsmith will guide participants through a live, facilitated dialogue session. Rather than learning about dialogue, the room will learn through dialogue — experiencing the process from the inside out. Ken will lead the group in a real-time conversation, demonstrating how skilled facilitation can transform tension, deepen understanding, and open pathways to connection. As participants engage, observe, and reflect, they will gain practical insight into how to facilitate dialogue themselves: the structure, the stance, the subtle moves, and the courage required to hold space for authentic exchange. |
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13:10 |
Formulating and Asking Questions for Successful Outcomes in Mediation: World renowned, but Kerry based, Gerry O’Sullivan provides an insight into how to use powerful questions to shift thinking and get to the root causes of conflict to help parties solve their real, underlying, issues. |
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13.40 |
President’s Closing Address |
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14.00 |
End of Conference |
WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR CONFERENCE FEE
Your conference ticket* price includes access to all conference sessions on both Friday and Saturday, tea/coffee breaks on Friday and Saturday and lunch on Friday.
Delegates will be given links to presentations and access to video recordings of sessions after the event.
*Saturday only ticket does not include access on Friday or to the MII Awards and Networking social event.
Saturday only ticket price includes access to all sessions on Saturday (plus links to presentations and access to video recordings of sessions) and tea/coffee break. Lunch is NOT provided on Saturday.
CPD points: Delegates will receive one point per hour of attendance at conference sessions for CPD.
Friday : 6 CPD points
Saturday: 3 CPD points.
NEW MEDIATORS WELCOME
Are you new to mediation or recently joined MII? We’re holding a dedicated networking event on the morning of the conference, before it officially begins.
This is a great opportunity to:
- Learn how to maximise your MII membership throughout the year
- Connect and buddy up with fellow new members
- Meet experienced mediators and expand your network
- Get tips on how to make the most of your conference experience
Please opt into this event when purchasing your conference ticket
DRINKS & AWARDS RECEPTION
More information coming soon.
TICKET PRICES
More information coming soon.
Paying for your Conference Ticket
There are discounts for Early Bookings, Registered Community Mediation Service Providers and Trainee Affiliates.
• Members Early Bird (first 100 bookings) €225 After Early Bird €245
• Non Members Early Bird (first 100 bookings) €250 After Early Bird €270
• MII Registered Trainee Affiliates & Community Mediation Service Providers €175
• Saturday only €150
Payment options – online by credit/debit card at the time of booking or offline payment to be made within 7 days.
If you wish to make a payment off-line, please complete the online registration, choose the Pay Later Option in the Payment Information section on the Checkout page. You must then send payment within 7 days by cheque or bank transfer to secure your booking. The booking is voided is payment is not received.
• Bank Transfer: Payments in Euro IBAN: IE97 AIBK 9310 4717 4580 69 BIC: AIBKIE2D. When making a transfer please be sure to use your name as a reference so that the payment can be identified when it arrives.
• Paypal payment to info@themii.ie
MEET OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
This year’s conference brings together an exceptional lineup of internationally renowned keynote speakers who will share powerful insights, practical expertise, and transformative ideas:
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Kenneth Cloke – is a global leader in conflict resolution, renowned for his innovative approaches to mediation and organisational change. Director of the Center for Dispute Resolution, he brings decades of experience as a mediator, arbitrator, facilitator, coach, and trainer, working across some of the most complex disputes in family, workplace, community, organisational, and public‑policy settings. A prolific and internationally recognised author, Ken has written extensively on mediation, dialogue, democracy, and conflict transformation, with his books shaping practice around the world. His career spans over forty years of mediation and arbitration, university teaching across multiple disciplines, and conflict‑resolution work in more than 25 countries. He is also co‑founder and the first President of Mediators Beyond Borders. Ken’s leadership, insight, and global perspective make him one of the most influential voices in the field today.
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Joan Goldsmith – MA, DHL, is a highly respected educator, leadership expert, and organisational consultant with over 40 years of experience across the public and private sectors. Renowned for her work in leadership development, strategic planning, organisational change, and conflict resolution, she has coached senior executives and advised major global organisations including Deutsche Bank, Morgan Stanley, Verizon, and Viacom. A founder of Cambridge College and former Harvard University faculty member, Joan has also held teaching and advisory roles at leading institutions worldwide. She is an accomplished mediator specialising in workplace conflict and a prolific author on leadership and organiszational culture, co‑writing several influential books on leading and resolving conflict at work. Joan brings a wealth of expertise, insight, and practical wisdom to today’s leadership challenges. |
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Giuseppe DePalo Esq., is a leading international mediator and arbitrator with nearly 30 years’ experience resolving complex disputes worldwide. A panellist with JAMS, he has helped settle over 2,500 cases across 60 countries and has advised governments and global institutions, including serving as Ombudsman for the United Nations. Founder of the Dialogue Through Conflict Foundation, Giuseppe is at the forefront of advancing mediation through policy, research, and technology. His work explores the future of mediation, including its intersection with AI and its role in addressing global challenges. At the MII Annual Conference, Giuseppe will share insights from his extensive global experience, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the evolving role of mediation and what lies ahead for practitioners |
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Dr Liam Moggan – is one of Ireland’s most respected coach educators and performance development experts. A native of Tuam, County Galway, and now based in Ashbourne, County Meath, Liam has dedicated more than four decades to advancing coaching excellence across sport and business. He has worked with athletes and teams at national, Olympic and world level. Liam held senior roles within Coaching Ireland and Sport Ireland Coaching. He has served as vice President of Paralympics Ireland, Deputy President of the Irish Schools Athletics Association and President of the Schools International Athletics Board. His contribution to coaching has been recognised with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Limerick. Known for his wisdom and humour, Liam continues to inspire audiences with insights on leadership, learning and lifelong performance. |
ACCOMMODATION
Limited accommodation is available in the Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel
€199.00 Single Occupancy / €209.00 Double Occupancy Room Rate until 8th September (depending on availability). Click here to go directly to the booking page
After 8th September room rates are as publicly available.
GETTING TO THE CONFERENCE
The Crowne Plaza Hotel near Dublin Airport is conveniently located only 7 minutes away from Dublin Airport by car. The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle bus to the terminal, which runs every 20 minutes from 4am – 11.30pm. The journey takes less than 10 minutes. See the timetable here: https://cpireland.crowneplaza.com/dublin-airport/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/07/shuttle_bus_24_hour_schedule.pdf
Parking is available at the hotel: Car Parking Charges Apply €10.00 Daily Rate and can be booked in advance at https://airpark.ie/car-parks/dublin-airport/dublin-crowne-plaza-hotel
In terms of Dublin Bus, the closest stop to the hotel is stop number 1626, and the 41B, 16, 27B, 33, 41C, all stop there from the city centre direction.
FEE DISCOUNT FOR MII HOSTED ASSOCIATED EVENT: WHEN GOOD NEGOTIATORS CLOSE THE DEAL — READING PEOPLE, POWER, AND MACHINES A Full-Day Masterclass on What Really Drives Success (and Failure) at the Table with Giuseppe De Palo, Mediator & Arbitrator, JAMS (New York)
Book for the MII Annual Conference and get a discount on the fee for our associated event:
WHEN GOOD NEGOTIATORS CLOSE THE DEAL — READING PEOPLE, POWER, AND MACHINES A Full-Day Masterclass on What Really Drives Success (and Failure) at the Table with Giuseppe De Palo, Mediator & Arbitrator, JAMS (New York)
Organised by the Mediators’ Institute of Ireland in collaboration with Giuseppe De Palo, Mediator & Arbitrator, JAMS (New York)
Thursday, 8 October 2026 10:00 AM – 3:45 PM Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel, Santry Demense, Dublin 9.
Tea, coffee and lunch included. Places are strictly limited to 28 participants. First come, first served. REGISTER HERE
ABOUT THIS PROGRAMME
You have done your preparation. You know the file inside out. You have a strong position. And yet the deal slips away — or the dispute escalates when it didn’t need to. This masterclass is about what happens in that gap.
The day moves through three lenses on that gap. It starts with the person — the psychology of trust, culture, and read that shapes every negotiation before a word is exchanged. It moves to power — through a live mock case that pits two negotiators against the same impossible situation, showing exactly where leverage is lost and where it can still be found. And it closes with the machine — how AI and automated counterparts are changing what negotiation even is, and what that means for anyone who still has to sit across the table, real or virtual.
Designed for anyone who negotiates — whether you are closing contracts, resolving disputes, managing relationships across borders, or navigating difficult conversations inside organisations — this is a practice-driven, hands-on day that goes beyond theory. You do not need to be a lawyer. What you need is a desire to negotiate better.
Participants will work through live scenarios alongside faculty who have negotiated under genuine pressure — from international commercial disputes to high-stakes cross-border transactions. The format is interactive throughout: expect to be challenged, to observe, and to leave with tools you can use immediately.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This programme is designed for anyone who negotiates — contracts, disputes, or both — regardless of professional background. You do not need to be a lawyer to benefit, and the programme is equally relevant whether you work in business, public service, financial services, healthcare, construction, or any sector where agreements need to be reached and conflicts need to be resolved.
PROGRAMME
Part I — The Human Architecture of Negotiation 10:00 – 11:15 AM
Why smart, well-prepared people still lose at the table. This opening session examines the psychology behind negotiation outcomes: how trust is built or destroyed in the first exchanges, why culture shapes everything from risk appetite to silence, and how the best negotiators read the room before they say a word. Includes a live fishbowl exercise.
Coffee and tea break: 11:15 – 11:30 AM
Part II — Power: Negotiating Under Pressure 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
When leverage is stacked entirely against you, what actually keeps you at the table — and alive in it? This session is built around a live mock case: two contrasting versions of the same high-stakes scenario, played out in full, showing exactly where one negotiator collapses and another survives using the same starting position. Participants dissect both in real time, extracting concrete technique — radical honesty, the accusation audit, calibrated questions, and the influence principles of consistency, scarcity, and authority — that quietly move outcomes when direct power sits entirely with the other side.
Lunch: 12:45 – 2:00 PM
Part III — Technology: Negotiating with Machines 2:00 – 3:15 PM
Negotiation is no longer only human-to-human. This session looks at how interacting with machines — AI-assisted counterparts, automated deal-matching, algorithmic pricing, negotiation agents — is fundamentally changing how deals get made and disputes get resolved. What changes when your counterpart isn’t a person, or when your own preparation is shaped by a machine before you ever sit down? Includes live contributions from two guest speakers joining online from the field.
Closing Q&A — Open Floor 3:15 – 3:45 PM
All faculty. Structured audience participation. Bring your hardest cases.
FACULTY
Giuseppe De Palo is a JAMS mediator in New York and President of the Dialogue Through Conflict Foundation. An internationally recognised figure in mediation and negotiation, he has worked extensively across institutional and cross-border contexts, designing and leading training programmes worldwide. Alongside his practical experience in complex commercial dispute resolution settings, he is also a prolific author, bringing a distinctive blend of rigorous thought leadership and hands-on expertise that sets his approach apart.
REGISTRATION AND FEES
Places are capped at 28. Registration is on a first come, first served basis.
Standard Fees MII Members: €450 Non-Members: €550
Special Conference Rate
For MII members who have purchased a 2026 MII Annual Conference ticket: €300
Non-Members who have purchased a 2026 MII Annual Conference ticket: €400
All fees include tea, coffee, and a working lunch. Your place is confirmed upon receipt of payment.