Ireland’s aviation sector is set to see a refreshed leadership team at the top of daa, the State-owned company responsible for operating Dublin and Cork airports, following the announcement of four new board appointments by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien. The Minister confirmed that Fred Barry, Laura Burke, Lisa Dillon and Niamh O’Regan will join the daa plc board from 20 July 2026. Existing board member Ger Perdisatt has also been reappointed.
The move comes at a significant time for daa as Dublin Airport continues to face major capacity and infrastructure challenges while handling record passenger demand. Cork Airport is also experiencing sustained growth, placing increased focus on long-term strategic planning, regulatory engagement and infrastructure development.
Announcing the appointments, Minister O’Brien said the new directors would bring a broad range of expertise to the organisation. “I am pleased to appoint Fred Barry, Laura Burke, Lisa Dillon and Niamh O’Regan as board members of daa, and to re-appoint Ger Perdisatt. These directors will bring an impressive and diverse collective experience to the Board, with expertise and skills across many sectors including governance, regulation, finance, and infrastructure development. I wish each member the very best in their roles.”
daa Chair Gary Owens also welcomed the appointments, highlighting the contribution the new board members are expected to make as the organisation navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead. “I am delighted to welcome four new directors to the Board of daa, and I congratulate Fred, Laura, Lisa and Niamh on their appointments. In addition to the existing board members, I believe that their wide experience and skills will be hugely beneficial to daa in delivering on our mandate in the coming years.”
The appointments follow an open recruitment process conducted through the State Boards website, with candidates assessed by publicjobs in accordance with established public appointment procedures.
The strengthened board arrives during a critical period for Ireland’s principal airport operator. Dublin Airport remains at the centre of national discussions around passenger capacity, planning policy and future airport development, while Cork Airport continues to expand its route network and passenger numbers. As the operator of both airports, daa also oversees significant international business interests through Aer Rianta International and daa International, giving the company a global footprint beyond its domestic operations.
