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Minister O’Brien appoints new board to the Heritage Council, thanks outgoing board members
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, TD, today (3 November) announced the appointment of a new board of the Heritage Council. Appointees were selected following a public competition overseen by the Public Appointments Service.
Mr Michael Parsons is to remain on as Chair of the Board and Fionnuala May has been reappointed to serve a second term.
The newly-appointed members of the Board of the Heritage Council are
• Michael Farrell
• John Patrick Greene
• Sammy Leslie
• Deirdre McDermott
• Martina Moloney
• Dr Patricia O Hare
• John G. Pierce
• Sheila Pratschke
• Dr Mary Tubridy
Making the announcement, Minister O’Brien said
The Heritage Council plays a critical role in supporting and advocating for our rich and diverse heritage, as is reflected in its strategic plan and significantly increased funding for 2021. I would like to thank the Chair and the outgoing Board for its considerable service over the last five years. I am delighted that Michael will remain on as Chair and I now welcome the new Board and wish it well for its term ahead.
The Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, TD, added
the Heritage Council has ambitious plans for the coming year, including the expansion of its community grants scheme, supports for the heritage sector and the introduction of a new Inclusive Heritage Programme. I am looking forward to working with the new Board, along with the Chair, the CEO and the Executive, to realise the full potential of these schemes while ensuring heritage is at the heart of our planning and decision-making.