The Cabinet yesterday ratified the appointment of Mr John Malone as the new Secretary of the Department of Agriculture. He replaces Mr Michael Dowling who has held the post for seven years.
Mr Malone, who has been the assistant secretary, joined the Department in 1969. He also served as private secretary to the Minister.
A native of Portroe, Nenagh, Co Tipperary, Mr Malone was educated at St Flannan's College, Ennis, Co Clare, and in University College Dublin. He is married with five children.