Brian McHugh

The panel of 16 independent adjudication officers were appointed by the enterprise, tourism and employment minister Peter Burke with effect from 27 November 2025.

The newly appointed panel comprises Andrew Taylor, Barry Doherty SC, Dr Catarina Marvão, Dr Dermot Nolan, Dr Elaine Byrne BL, Eoin Ó Cuilleanáin BL, Professor Francis O’Toole, Professor Frédéric Yves Jenny, Isolde Goggin, Johan Keetelaar, Julianne O’Leary, Laura McGovern, Lorna Gallagher BL, Dr Muiris Ó Céidigh, Sarah Johnson and Susan Ahern SC.

The CCPC nominated the candidates to the minister to act as adjudication officers and make decisions on behalf of the CCPC and otherwise to exercise functions under the Competition Act 2002.

They will form an expert and balanced panel, with diverse experience across competition law, economics, regulation, legal practice and international enforcement.

The new appointment is for a five-year term, with chief adjudication officer Brian Kennedy SC already appointed and in place. 

The adjudication officers will play a vital part in ensuring the Irish competition regime delivers for consumers and the wider economy.

The Competition (Amendment) 2022 Act establishes a landmark new administrative enforcement regime in Ireland for breaches of EU and Irish competition law.

The CCPC can, through independent adjudication officers and subject to court approval, make decisions on alleged infringements of competition law and impose administrative financial sanctions of up to €10 million or 10 per cent of total worldwide turnover. 

Brian McHugh, chairperson of the CCPC, said: “The appointment of this panel marks a significant milestone for the CCPC and for competition in Ireland.

“Now we can impose administrative financial sanctions for breaches of Irish and EU competition law, through independent adjudication officers and subject to court confirmation.

“The CCPC is committed to promoting open and fair competition which is critical to the success of the Irish economy — driving value, consumer choice and innovation.

“The appointees bring exceptional experience and will play a pivotal role, alongside our chief adjudication officer, Brian Kennedy SC, in ensuring that the Irish competition regime delivers for consumers and the Irish marketplace.”