Mary Keane

Ms Keane, who is also deputy director general and director of policy and public affairs at the Law Society of Ireland, has served on the Board since 2014.

She succeeds a fellow barrister, Michael Cush SC, who has served as chair for the past six years.

Commenting on her election, Ms Keane said: “The National Gallery of Ireland is a wonderfully dynamic and modern institution and I am honoured to be entrusted to serve as chair of its Board.

“The national collection belongs to the people of Ireland and I know that we will hold culture close as we all begin to heal from these challenging times.”