Martina Kelly appointed President of Down Syndrome Ireland

_{Martina pictured with National Advisory Council chairperson Fintan Bray.}

Down Syndrome Ireland is delighted to welcome Martina Kelly as our new Board President.

Martina was elected on Saturday, November 8th at Down Syndrome Ireland’s AGM.

Martina has been on the Board of DSI since 2023. She is a retired Civil Servant with a broad range of experience in the educational sector, including as a secondary school Principal. She is also a workplace mediator.

Martina is also a parent of an adult with Down syndrome. 

Speaking about her new role, Martina said:

“I am truly honoured to have been appointed president of Down Syndrome Ireland. 

 I am looking forward to working with our amazing branches, national office and board, all united in our shared commitment to supporting and advocating for every one of our members and their families.

 

She added: “As a proud parent, and as a board member since 2023, I am very delighted to step in to the role of President and follow in the footsteps of Gerard O Carroll. 

I am excited for the journey ahead and so grateful for the dedication and support of our DSI community.”

Martina took over from Gerard O Carroll, who served as President of the Board.

Máire Neary was also elected as a board director. Máire is a lawyer in an Irish tech company, has a background in HR and leadership and also has a sibling with Down syndrome.

Board secretary Sylvaine Ni Cheallachain and director Fionn Crombie Angus also finished their term on the board, stepping down from their roles.

Speaking at the AGM, former president Gerard O Carroll thanked both directors for their contribution.

“Sylvaine, in a time of uncertainty and change, it was brilliant to have such a strong, constant on our board and you have been an incredibly reliable secretary and support to the executive throughout your term,” he said, while adding: “Fionn, your contribution to the board has been hugely significant, and it’s important to celebrate that Fionn was the first member on the board who has Down syndrome. We know you will continue to do amazing things in your future.”

Down Syndrome Ireland would like to sincerely thank Gerard, Sylvaine and Fionn for their dedication and hard work over the past few years, and warmly welcome Máire to the board, and Martina in her new role as president.