Niamh Sweeney

There will now three data protection commissioners, following the appointment of Dr Des Hogan and Dale Sunderland in February 2024.

Ms Sweeney has over 20 years’ cross-sectoral experience spanning technology, public service and media.

Most recently, she was a director with a global strategic advisory firm having previously held senior roles at a number of technology companies, including as director of public policy for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at WhatsApp.

Prior to entering the technology sector, she was a special adviser at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and worked as a journalist for many years, including at the national broadcaster RTÉ.

Ms Sweeney holds a BA in European studies from Trinity College Dublin and is a two-time graduate of Columbia University in New York.

Her appointment will take effect from 13 October 2025 and run for a five-year term.

Justice, home affairs and migration minister Jim O’Callaghan said: “The Data Protection Commission has grown significantly in size, scope and responsibility over the last decade, playing a critical role as one of the largest EU data protection authorities.

“The DPC continues to have expanding and evolving responsibilities as the national independent authority in Ireland responsible for upholding the fundamental right of individuals in the European Union to have their personal data protected.

“From 2026, the DPC will assume significant market surveillance authority responsibilities in relation to certain high-risk AI systems including law enforcement and certain biometrics. The AI Act expressly provides for certain roles for the DPC.

“The DPC is anticipating an increased workload arising from the impact of the EU’s new digital Acts such as the Digital Markets Act, Data Act, and Digital Services Act on data protection matters.

“These additional functions are critical to Ireland’s ability to maintain its leading role in the development and regulation of Europe’s digital economy.

“As the responsibilities and scope of the DPC continue to grow, I am pleased that three commissioners will now lead and manage this key regulatory body.”