Finlay hopes new Charity watchdog chief was appointed in 'open competition'

The CEO of Barnardos Fergus Finlay says the head of the new Charity watchdog should not be appointed by a Government Minister.

Mr Finlay was commenting after Justice Minister Alan Shatter yesterday announced that an official from his own Department, Úna Ní Dhubhghaill, would lead the new body.

It is hoped the Charity Regulator Authority will be fully established by the end of the year and will ensure greater transparency in a sector reeling from the top-ups controversy.

The Barnardos CEO has welcomed Ms Ní Dhubhghaill's appointment, but says Ministers should not have the final say in who runs the new body.