UCD disease specialist Professor Mary Horgan to design Ireland’s new emerging health threats agency
Posted 27 November 2023
The Government of Ireland has appointed Professor Mary Horgan to design a dedicated emerging health threats agency for Ireland.
An expert in infectious disease, the UCD academic will spearhead the new body, which will focus on infectious diseases, pandemic preparedness, and other emerging threats to public health.
The Professor of infectious diseases at UCD School of Medicine, she was appointed by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly who said the new agency “will ensure strengthened preparedness, by consolidating existing expertise across the health service together with additional external resources and expertise”.
"Through her various roles in our health service, Mary has contributed valuable knowledge and expertise, shaping patient care. Her practical advice as a member of NPHET, encouraging the uptake of vaccines and guidance as the country began to emerge from the pandemic reflects skills that will be instrumental in strengthening Ireland’s preparedness for future health threats."
Professor Horgan’s appointment follows consideration of the report of the Public Health Reform Expert Advisory Group (PHREAG), which examined the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland.
A proposal on the scope and functions of the agency will be brought to Government within six months.
“I am honoured to be appointed to lead the team that will design this new health agency,” said Professor Horgan.
“Together we will collaborate to ensure Ireland is well prepared for future public health threats, including pandemics.”
The appointment comes as another health specialist takes on an international role aimed at developing new vaccines against current and new diseases.”
Originally from Kerry, Professor Horgan was the first female President of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland since its establishment in 1654.
She graduated from UCD in 1986, and was awarded her MD in 1995, MRCPI in 1988 and FRCPI in 1997.
By: David Kearns, Digital Journalist / Media Officer, UCD University Relations
To contact the UCD News & Content Team, email: newsdesk@ucd.ie
