Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has congratulated Mairéad Farrell TD on her appointment as Chair of the Public Accounts Committee.

She is the first woman Chair of the Public Accounts Committee and the youngest chair in its 25-year history.

Teachta Farrell brings huge experience to the role and will represent the public interest in ensuring taxpayers’ money is spent properly and there is accountability when public money is wasted or spent incorrectly.

Ms McDonald said:

“I want to congratulate Mairéad Farrell on her appointment as Chair of the Public Accounts Committee. She is the first woman to hold the position and the youngest chair in the committee’s 25-year history.

“Mairéad brings huge experience to the role and will represent the public interest in ensuring taxpayers money is spent properly and there is accountability when public money is wasted or spent incorrectly.

“She has a Masters in Finance and a Degree in Economics and worked in finance, all of which will further assist her in fulfilling the role. She has previously served as Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Public Expenditure and now works as our party’s spokesperson for Further and Higher Education.

“Mairéad will be steadfast and meticulous in upholding the public interest and protecting the public purse.”