Liam Herrick

Mr Herrick’s selection by ministers following a public appointment process must now be approved by the Oireachtas before his formal appointment by President Michael D. Higgins.

He has served as executive director of ICCL since November 2016. Previously, he worked as an advisor to President Higgins, as well as executive director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) from 2007 to 2014.

He also worked as the first head of legislation and policy at the former Irish Human Rights Commission, as well as with the Law Reform Commission and at the Department of Foreign Affairs.

He is a former member of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission and also served on a strategic review group on penal policy for the former Department of Justice and Equality.

Mr Herrick will serve as chief commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission for a five-year term.

Commission member Lucy Michael said: “The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission warmly welcomes the proposal of Liam Herrick as the next chief commissioner.

“Liam is a former member of the Commission, and has demonstrated his commitment, leadership and expertise in the areas of human rights and equality over many years.

“We look forward to his appointment to lead the Commission for the next five years, subject to approval by the Oireachtas and formal appointment by the President.”