Co Cavan native Ruairí McKiernan has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Development Education Association (IDEA).
This significant national role will help shape the future of Ireland’s engagement with global citizenship, social justice, and sustainability issues.With over 20 years of experience as a respected non-profit leader, activist, and social innovator, Ruairí brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the organisation.
Ruairí is the founder and former CEO of the pioneering national youth organisation Spunout. He served on the Council of State for seven years as one of President Michael D. Higgins's appointees. He has also worked closely with the peace and justice group Afri on development education, public engagement, and campaigning for many years.
Ruairí’s international experience includes youth development work in Tanzania, and he recently returned from living in Australia, where he focused on Indigenous rights and advocating for gambling industry reform. The association said they look forward to the energy, experience, and vision Ruairí will bring to IDEA as they expand their impact on development education and global citizenship education.
