John McDaid

Mr McDaid led the legal aid agency from 2014 until 2023, having joined in 1993 after a period of working in private practice as a solicitor in Dublin and in Australia.

In addition to his appointment as chairperson, five ordinary members have been appointed to the Authority’s board.

Dr Sheila Greene has been reappointed, while Geraldine Keehan, Colin Fallon, Dr Ciara O’Rafferty and Dr Valerie O’Brien join the board for the first time.

Children, disability and equality minister Norma Foley said: “I am very pleased to be appointing Mr John McDaid as chairperson of the Adoption Authority of Ireland. 

“Mr McDaid brings a wide range of experience, skills and expertise to his role, which will help guide the board in upholding the rights of children and young people and others affected by adoption and achieving the best outcomes possible for all involved.”

“I am also very pleased to be appointing Ms Keehan, Mr Fallon, Dr O’Rafferty and Dr O’Brien, and to be reappointing Dr Greene, to the board of the Authority.

“I trust that they will find membership of the Adoption Authority to be a rewarding experience, and I wish them well in their roles.”

The minister also paid tribute to the outgoing chairperson, Orlaith Traynor, deputy chairperson Sean O’Brien, and ordinary members Paul Harrison, Judge Patrick McMahon, Dr Helen Buckley and Dr Margo Anglim.