merrion street

Eoghan Murphy, T.D., Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, today (12 September, 2018) announced that the Government have appointed Mr. Dave Walsh as the new Chair of An Bord Pleanála, following an open recruitment process.  Mr. Walsh, who is currently an Assistant Secretary in the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, replaces Dr. Mary Kelly whose term of office expired at the end of last month.

Mr. Walsh currently leads the Planning, Land and Housing Market Division in the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and has played a key role in developing a range of Government initiatives, including the National Planning Framework published as part of Project Ireland 2040 earlier this year.  He also has experience in a range of other policy areas, including climate change and environmental policy.  He is a graduate of Trinity College, having been awarded a BA (Classics) and an M.Sc. in Economic Policy.

Commenting on the appointment, Minister Murphy said: 

I am delighted that the Government is in a position to appoint someone of Mr Walsh’s calibre as the new Chair of An Bord Pleanála.  Given the pivotal role that the Board will play in the sustainable development of our country in the years ahead, he is taking on a challenging assignment which I know he will deliver on with great leadership and professionalism.  I wish him every success in his new role.

In conclusion, the Minister expressed his appreciation for the leadership and commitment of the former Chair of the Board, Dr Mary Kelly, during her 7 year term and wished her well in her retirement.