Sinéad McPhillips has been appointed Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Minister Heydon expressed his delight, stating, "I am confident that under her leadership, the Department can continue to deliver for the Irish agriculture, food, forestry and fisheries sectors." McPhillips has served as Assistant Secretary General for EU, UK and International Affairs. The coming years will see significant policy developments at the EU level, including new Common Fisheries and Agriculture Policies. Minister Heydon added, “The Department has a broad remit that includes policy negotiation, economic support, and food safety regulations.”He also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Secretary General Brendan Gleeson, who served for seven years.