Sinéad McPhillips has been appointed Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The announcement was made today by Minister Martin Heydon TD following government approval.
Minister Heydon expressed his delight, stating, "I am confident that under her leadership, the Department can continue to deliver for the Irish agriculture, food, forestry and fisheries sectors."
McPhillips has served as Assistant Secretary General for EU, UK and International Affairs. She led agri-food negotiations at EU level and managed the department’s overseas network.
Her previous roles include Chief Economist and leading agri-food strategy initiatives. McPhillips holds Master's degrees in International Human Rights Law and Economic Science.
The coming years will see significant policy developments at the EU level, including new Common Fisheries and Agriculture Policies. Ireland will also hold the Presidency of the EU Council in the latter half of 2026.
Minister Heydon added, “The Department has a broad remit that includes policy negotiation, economic support, and food safety regulations.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Secretary General Brendan Gleeson, who served for seven years. "He leaves a remarkable legacy and has fostered a culture of engagement and teamwork," the Minister noted. Gleeson is set to retire and will enjoy time on the Beara peninsula, his family's roots.
