Emily O'Reilly, a political columnist for the Sunday Times, is
expected to become Ireland's next Ombudsman and Freedom of
Information Commissioner, following backing yesterday from the
Irish Government.
The current Ombudsman and Freedom of Information Commissioner,
Kevin Murphy, announced his intention to retire from both offices
with effect from 1st June 2003.
Mr Murphy has been Ombudsman since November 1994 and Freedom of
Information Commissioner since the inception of that office in
April 1998.
The Government yesterday agreed to request that Ireland's two
Houses of Parliament, Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann, recommend Ms
O'Reilly of Tullamore, Co Offaly, for appointment by the
President.
