A LIMERICK-based professor is set to take up a new role in Ireland’s highest office as an advisor to the Taoiseach.
Professor Stephen Kinsella, head of the Department of Economics at the University of Limerick (UL) is set to take up the role in the coming weeks, with his confirmation to the role set to be officially announced this week.
The UL professor will be Taoiseach Simon Harris’ economic advisor, with his involvement increasing in advance of significant events in the fiscal calendar such as Summer Economic Statement and the annual budget in the autumn.
It is understood that he will take up the role on a part time basis, while managing his teaching and other commitments in UL.
The Irish Times originally flagged the appointment in March when Taoiseach Simon Harris was elected Taoiseach, but is is understood that it took some weeks for agreements to be made between the parties.
Originally from Dublin, Professor Kineslla is also known for his journalism, writing for the Irish Times and the Sunday Business Post, before moving to online outlet The Currency where he was appointed chief economics writer. Locally, he co-hosts the Ann and Steve Talk Stuff podcast with Ann Blake, published by the Limerick Post.
It is understood that Professor Kinsella will take a step back from journalistic endeavours while in the government position.
Professor Kinsella co-directs the Immersive Software Engineering course in UL, while also heading the +CityxChange, INCASE and SMARTLAB research projects at the University of Limerick.
He has also written for The Guardian and the New York Times, and twice won the Economic Commentator of the Year award for his columns.
