Minister Catherine Martin has appointed Louise Donlon as the new chair of the Culture Ireland Expert Advisory Committee; Donlon follows former chairman Kieran Hanrahan, who has completed his term in the role.

Established in 2005 as a division of the Department of Culture, Heritage and Gaeltacht, Culture Ireland was mandated to advance Irish culture at an international level through the advancement and support of Irish artists via a regular grant scheme.

Chairs of the committee are expected to play an important role in the overall shaping of Ireland’s cultural landscape as well as the progression of the Department of Culture’s aspirations under Global Ireland, a national project that sets out to expand Ireland’s global footprint.

 

Minister @cathmartingreen T.D. has appointed Louise Donlon as the new Chair of the Culture Ireland Expert Advisory Committee. Louise replaces Kieran Hanrahan as Chair who has now completed his term https://t.co/fNLW9HrJqD pic.twitter.com/WrtypifUIn

— Tourism-Culture-Arts-Gaeltacht-Sport-Media (@DeptCultureIRL) May 15, 2024

Donlon is currently the Executive Director of the Lime Tree Theatre Co. Limerick. She has served as a member of the Arts Council, as well as the council of Culture Ireland and is on the board of Siamsa Tíre. She has also worked in arts administration for over thirty years, experience that Minister Martin says will aid her in her role of chair.

“Louise will bring a large set of skills to the role," the Minister said, "and also a keen appreciation and understanding of the challenges and also the opportunities facing Irish artists today.”

On accepting her role as Chair, Donlon expressed her desire to further expand Ireland’s already impressive cultural global impact. “I look forward," Louise Donlon said, "to working with my colleagues on the Expert Advisory Committee to continue the great work being done by Culture Ireland in showcasing Irish arts on the global stage.”

Donlon's role as chair will be effective now until the end of 2026.