Sisters Assuming Leadership Positions in Government Departments for the First Time
New Secretary General Appointed at Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in Europe
Sinead McPhillips has been approved as the new Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in Europe. This appointment follows a competitive process undertaken by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Top Level Appointments Commission.
McPhillips, who hails from Drumcondra in Dublin, is no stranger to the department. She previously served as assistant secretary for EU, UK and International Affairs, and prior to that, she led on agri-food negotiations at EU level, implemented Ireland's Common Agricultural Policy strategic plan, and managed the department's overseas network.
Before joining the Department of Agriculture, McPhillips served as assistant secretary general with responsibility for agri-food strategy and sectoral development. She also held the position of the Department of Agriculture's chief economist.
Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon, expressed confidence in McPhillips' leadership, stating that he looks forward to working closely with her. He acknowledged that the period ahead would be characterized by profound developments in policy at EU level, including new Common Fisheries and Agriculture Policies.
The Programme for Government: Securing Ireland's Future will be a focus in the department under McPhillips' leadership. With Ireland set to hold the presidency of the EU Council in the second half of 2026, the preparations for and execution of this responsibility will be a significant focus.
McPhillips' appointment marks a milestone as she becomes one of the 13 women to serve as a secretary general of a Government department in Ireland. Her sister, Oonagh McPhillips, is the current secretary general of the Department of Justice.
Sinead McPhillips holds masters degrees in international human rights law and in economic science. Her extensive experience and qualifications make her well-equipped to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
The departure of Brendan Gleeson, who has retired following seven years as secretary general of the Department of Agriculture, has created a vacancy that McPhillips is now ready to fill. The department and the nation look forward to her leadership.
