Sinéad Gibney

Ms Gibney is resigning in order to seek nomination as a candidate in elections this June, according to a statement issued by the Commission. It did not provide further details, though Ms Gibney previously withdrew from competing in the 2020 general election as a candidate for the Social Democrats in order to take up the role.

She served as the Commission’s inaugural director from 2014 to 2016 prior to her appointment as chief commissioner in February 2020.

The Commission said it “would like to thank Sinéad for the contribution she has made in her time as chief commissioner, and as the inaugural director of the organisation, and we wish her well in her future endeavours”.

Ms Gibney added: “It has been a privilege to work in IHREC. I’m passionate about the importance of a strong rights and equality body which works towards a just and inclusive Ireland.

“I have full confidence that IHREC will continue to thrive and to serve the people of Ireland in the fulfilment of its mandate. I’m excited to now embark on a new chapter in my own career.”