Publications
Dr. Barry Scannell is an expert in AI law and policy, specialising in intellectual property, AI compliance and governance, data protection, and commercial contracts. A Partner in the Technology Group at William Fry, one of Ireland’s leading law firms, Barry advises major Irish and international organisations on the legal and regulatory challenges posed by AI technologies and has extensive experience in public communications around AI issues, and in particular, advising on the legal implications of AI technologies. Barry holds a PhD in AI and copyright and plays an important role in helping shape Ireland's AI policy. Barry was appointed by the Irish Government as a member of Ireland's AI Advisory Council, and as chair of its Working Group on AI and the creative sector. Barry has extensive experience in the music industry, in a previous role being Director of Legal Affairs and Regulatory Compliance of the Irish Performing Rights Organisation, IMRO, the Irish Music Rights Organisation. He was also on the Global Policy Committee for CISAC, the international body representing collective management organisations, and chaired its working group on AI and copyright. Barry has addressed global forums such as the World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) ongoing conversation on AI and copyright, and is a regular contributor to national and international news and media. Barry also sits on the Law Society of Ireland’s IP and Data Protection Committee.
Co-author of the Ireland - Market Insights chapter in the Artificial Intelligence Law Guide , published 16 July 2026 , alongside Leo Moore , Rachel Hayes and Kevin White .
Co-author of the Ireland chapter in the Artificial Intelligence Law Guide , published 8 October 2024 , alongside David Cullen , Jordie Sattar and Leo Moore .