Minister Martin announces appointment of new Secretary General

The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, is pleased to announce the appointment of Feargal Ó Coigligh as Secretary General of the department, following government approval earlier today.

Mr Ó Coigligh is currently Assistant Secretary in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with responsibility for housing policy and co-ordinating Housing-for-All. Prior to that he had responsibility for water services, including Uisce Éireann. Mr Ó Coigligh was Assistant Secretary for Culture and Arts from 2015 to 2018 where he oversaw the Decade of Centenaries including the successful Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme. Prior to that he had responsibility for Heritage policy, including the National Parks and Wildlife Service. He is a fluent Irish speaker.

Minister Martin said:

“I am delighted to confirm the appointment of Mr Ó Coigligh to the role of Secretary General at the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

“I am looking forward to working closely with Feargal in continuing the important work of this department, which plays a key role in leading the sustainable development of Tourism, Culture, Arts, the Gaeltacht, Sport, and the Media. These sectors play a crucial role in building social progress, and enhancing wellbeing, and cultural and economic growth across Irish society.

“And I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the significant contribution made by Secretary General Katherine Licken, who retires from the civil service later this week. Throughout her distinguished civil service career, Katherine has displayed deft leadership and professional insight. I have greatly appreciated Katherine’s support and advice over the past number of years, and I wish her the very best for the future.”