Ms. Sarah Kavanagh is a Special Advisor in my Office. She holds a BA degree in History and Politics, an MA degree in Politics, an MA in Political Communication, a Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies and a Barrister at Law Degree. Ms. Kavanagh worked in the Houses of the Oireachtas as a Parliamentary Assistant and Senior Policy Officer for nine years and as a Special Advisor in three Government Departments over the last four years.
Mr. Tom Fabozzi served as Special Advisor from my appointment as Minister for Justice and Equality until earlier this month. Ms. Caroline Murphy is replacing Mr. Fabozzi and the formal process associated with the appointment is currently underway. Ms. Murphy has over 30 years’ experience in the fields of communications and media having worked with RTÉ in both TV and radio. In addition, she is qualified as an Organisational Psychologist.
Both advisors are remunerated on the Principal Officer standard pay scale (PPC).
Having regard to the significant legislative programme that I am responsible for, Robert Bourke BL is currently in the process of being appointed to the position of Legal Advisor on similar remuneration terms. Mr. Bourke has over ten years’ experience as a practising barrister and worked for nine months as a Legal Researcher for the Company Law Review Group. He holds a BA degree in Business, Politics and French, a Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies and a Barrister at Law Degree.