Department of Health seeks new top civil servant as Robert Watt’s term expires

Mr Watt’s successor is expected to be paid the top salary for a secretary general — €280,902 per year

There was controversy surrounding Robert Watt’s appointment to the Department of Health in 2021. He received an €81,000 increase beyond the standard payment rates for the most senior civil servants. Picture: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie

The Government will launch an appointments process for the top civil servant job at the Department of Health, as secretary general Robert Watt’s term expires in April.

Cabinet on Tuesday formally approved the plan to begin the appointment process for Mr Watt’s successor, with a job notice expected to be placed in the days ahead.