Irish Government Approves 18 Ambassadorial Nominations, Achieving Female Majority in Diplomatic Leadership

Government Approves New Diplomatic Appointments

The Irish Government, on October 14, 2025, approved 18 ambassadorial nominations, a move that will see 53% of Ireland's diplomatic missions led by women. The announcement was made by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris T.D., who stated that these appointments are scheduled to take place during 2026, pending agreement from the respective receiving states.

Key Diplomatic Shifts and Continuity

The approved nominations include several significant reassignments and continuities in Ireland's global diplomatic network. Geraldine Byrne Nason will remain as Ireland's Ambassador to the United States, a decision reportedly made to ensure continuity during a potentially turbulent period in US politics. Meanwhile, Martin Fraser, currently the Ambassador to the UK, is set to become Ireland's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York. He will be succeeded in London by Sonja Hyland, who currently serves as Deputy Secretary General in the Ireland, UK and Americas Division.

Other notable appointments include:

• Alison Milton as Ambassador to France
• Noel White as Ambassador to Japan
• Ciarán Madden as Ambassador to Ethiopia
• Lesley Ní Bhriain as Ambassador to Nigeria
• Deirdre Clancy as Ambassador to Senegal
• Olive Hempenstall as Ambassador to Argentina
• Karen Lynch as Ambassador to the Holy See
• Jonathan Conlon as Ambassador to Poland
• Fergal Mythen as Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates
• Aidan Cronin as Ambassador to Iran
• Nicola McHugh as Ambassador to Jordan
• Laurence Simms as Ambassador to the UN in Geneva

Advancing Gender Equality in Ireland's Diplomatic Service

A key highlight of these nominations is the achievement of a female majority in leadership roles across Ireland's diplomatic missions. With 53% of missions now slated to be led by women, this includes high-profile postings such as Washington D.C., the EU, London, Berlin, and Paris. This development underscores Ireland's commitment to gender equality within its foreign service.

Global Ireland Strategy Continues Expansion

These appointments are part of the broader Global Ireland strategy, which aims to expand Ireland's international footprint and influence. Ireland's diplomatic network currently comprises 103 missions worldwide, with 25 new missions having opened since 2018. In 2025, new embassies were established in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Moldova. Looking ahead, new Consulates General are planned to open in Malaga and Melbourne during 2026, further extending Ireland's global reach.