The Government has approved the recommended nomination of Ger Deering to the position of Ombudsman and Information Commissioner.
Mr Deering is the current Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman. Prior to that role he was Ireland's first Commissioner for Taxi Regulation and the founding director of the National Employment Rights Authority.
He was proposed by Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath following an open recruitment process managed by the Public Appointments Process.
Established under the Ombudsman Act 1980, the office holds substantial powers to conduct investigations in respect of the activities of public bodies.
‘I think I’d die if I stopped working’: the architect who celebrated his 91st birthday with a day off
HSE’s rental of Citywest hotel during pandemic an ‘impressive achievement’ – audit
No new Covid restrictions recommended this week, Holohan tells TDs as 3,666 new cases reported
Coveney says new commission will expose Defence Forces ‘vulnerabilities’
His nomination will now be referred to a relevant Committee of the Oireachtas for consideration. Motions will subsequently be put before both Houses recommending the appointment by the President.
Should it be accepted, Mr Deering will replace the current Ombudsman Peter Tyndall who is due to retire at the end of the year.
Mr Tyndall was originally appointed to the position by the President in 2013 and reappointed for a subsequent term at the end of 2019.
In a statement, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform credited Mr Tyndall with helping to drive major reforms and taking a central role in ensuring that services are delivered effectively and efficiently.
"The selection of Mr Deering follows a competitive recruitment process managed by the Public Appointments Service, which included a thorough search for suitable candidates both in Ireland and internationally," Mr McGrath said.
“Ger brings a wealth of relevant experience to the role, and I am confident that he will build upon the significant contribution which Peter Tyndall made during his time as Ombudsman and Information Commissioner.”
