Rory Montgomery has been announced as the new Chair of the Press Council of Ireland beginning April 1 this year.

Montgomery replaces Seán Donlon who will step down from his position on March 31.

The new chair brings 36 years of experience in the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of An Taoiseach, along with positions as Ambassador to France, Permanent Representative to the European Union in Brussels, Second Secretary General at the Department of An Taoiseach and Second Secretary General at the Department of Foreign Affairs to the role.

Speaking of his replacement, Seán Donlon said: "I am delighted that the Press Council has appointed Rory Montgomery. He takes up office at a time when the public credibility of the media has never been more important. The role of a Press Council, independent of the press industry and government, is crucial and I am confident that Rory  has all the skills and experience to guide the Press Council in the years ahead."

The Press Council of Ireland is responsible for the oversight of the professional principles embodies in the Code of Practice, and with upholding the freedom of the press.  

In Association with

It operates with the support and cooperation of member publications and journalists.  It decides on appeals from decisions of the Press Ombudsman and on complaints referred to it directly by the Press Ombudsman. It is independent of both government and media. 

The appointment was made following a public competition and Montgomery can remain in the position for a maximum of six years.

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