AML Compliance for Accountants in Ireland: Practical Guidance & Regulatory Insights

Introduction

AML compliance is no longer a box-ticking exercise - it is a professional safeguard.

This new virtual classroom seminar is designed specifically for Irish accountants who need to navigate the ever-tightening AML landscape with clarity and confidence. Led by expert speaker James Sherwin of Sherwin O’Riordan LLP, this practical session explores what regulators expect, how to structure your AML framework, and how to respond effectively when issues arise.

Whether you are a MLRO, a partner or a practitioner, this session will provide you with actionable insights and a clear understanding of your duties, the latest threats and the practical steps required to safeguard both your practice and professional standing.

What You Will Learn

On completion of this live and interactive session, you will be able to:

• Understanding AML offences - what constitutes an AML crime, where professional risks arise, and how to comply with reporting obligations while avoiding tipping-off breaches
• Navigate Ireland’s regulatory environment - understand the roles of professional bodies, IAASA oversight, and EU-driven harmonisation under the Single Rulebook
• Implement a robust AML compliance framework - including Business-Wide Risk Assessments (BWRAs), policies and procedures, staff training, client due diligence (CDD/EDD), and ongoing monitoring
• Apply a practical AML compliance checklist - ensuring records, documentation, and internal controls meet both legal and supervisory expectations
• Identify emerging threats and risk trends - including cyber-fraud, professional enablers, AI-assisted deception, and the growing scrutiny of beneficial ownership and high-risk flows
• Understand how and why accountants are targeted - and how to establish effective safeguards and ‘pause points’ to protect client integrity and firm reputation
• Clarify the role of the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) - responsibilities, authority, internal reporting structures, and governance obligations
• Recognise the consequences of non-compliance - from criminal sanctions to supervisory interventions, remediation measures, and public disciplinary outcomes
• Manage regulatory engagement with confidence - practical guidance on how to respond to regulator correspondence, maintain compliance, and demonstrate best practice
• Analyse real-world Irish case studies - applying lessons learned to strengthen AML processes and prepare for inspection or audit

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.