Noeline Blackwell to depart as FLAC director general

The director general of Free Legal Advice Centres (FLAC) is set to leave the post after a decade, the legal rights group has announced.

Noeline Blackwell, who has led the organisation since 2005, is leaving to take up a new role as CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

Peter Ward SC, chairperson of FLAC, said Ms Blackwell had made a “deeply significant and lasting contribution” to the development of FLAC and to the promotion of access to justice in Ireland.

He added: “During her ten years as Director General, she has helped FLAC bring a spotlight on the legal issues impacting on the poorest and most marginalised people in Irish society.

“Noeline’s time in FLAC coincided with Ireland’s plunge into deep recession and she ensured that FLAC responded to the legal needs of so many in Irish society who faced unemployment, unsustainable debt, inadequate social welfare provision and poverty.

“Noeline has been a committed and tireless advocate on behalf of people in this country, managing an expert team of staff at head office while also supporting the expansion of our voluntary advice services throughout the country.

“We wish to thank Noeline for her outstanding work and commitment to our organisation and wish her every success and fulfilment in the new challenge she is now undertaking.”