Garret Ahearn appointed leader of Seanad

Senator Garret Ahearn has been appointed as the leader of the Seanad.

Tánaiste Simon Harris appointed Mr Ahearn to the position after the former Seanad leader, Fine Gael’s Seán Kyne, was elected to Dáil Éireann last month.

Mr Ahearn, who hails from Tipperary, is the son of the late Theresa Ahearn, who was a Fine Gael TD for the Tipperary South constituency from 1989 to 2000.

He has been a senator since 2020 and was previously a member of Tipperary County Council. He was the Mayor of Clonmel from 2019 to 2020.

Senator Cathal Byrne has taken up the role of Seanad Government Chief Whip.

Mr Harris said Mr Ahearn “understands and appreciates the skills required” for the role, which acts as the main Government spokesperson in the Seanad.

The Tánaiste also paid tribute to Mr Byrne, describing him as a “strong and reliable public representative”.

Mr Ahearn said he was “deeply honoured” following his appointment.

“I look forward to working with colleagues from all parties and none to ensure the Seanad continues to make a meaningful contribution to public life,” he said.