The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment released the following statement:

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Coughlan today announced the appointment of Liam O’Mahony as the new Chairperson of IDA Ireland.

Announcing the appointment, the Tánaiste said: “I am delighted to welcome Liam as Chairman and wish him every success in his new position. He takes up this position at a time when we are facing significant challenges in the global economic environment. I have every confidence that Liam’s valuable experience and knowledge will contribute greatly to the further development and enhancement of foreign direct investment in Ireland”.

Liam O’Mahony is a former Group Chief Executive of CRH plc and has over 37 years experience in a variety of senior management positions in CRH, including Chief Executive of US operations and Managing Director of the Republic of Ireland and UK group of companies. Mr O'Mahony is currently a non-executive director of CRH and is a member of the Irish Management Institute Council. He currently serves as Chairperson of Smurfit Kappa Group plc.

The Tánaiste paid tribute to Mr John Dunne, the outgoing Chairperson of IDA Ireland, and thanked him for the work undertaken by him and progress made during his 10-year tenure as Chairperson. His commitment and valuable service has contributed to the excellent results achieved by the Agency in the attraction of foreign direct investment over the last number of years.