Successor announced to Ireland's best-paid civil servant Robert Watt

There was controversy surrounding Robert Watt’s appointment to the Department of Health in 2021. Picture: Collins Photos

A new secretary general has been appointed at the Department of Health, replacing the country's best-paid civil servant Robert Watt.

Health minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill announced that Derek Tierney, currently assistant secretary general at the Department of Health, will replace Mr Watt.

Cabinet in February formally approved the plan to begin the appointment process for Mr Watt’s successor. Sources indicated that the salary for his successor would be set at a lower rate.

There was controversy surrounding Mr 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.

Ms Carroll MacNeill said in a statement: “Derek brings a wealth of experience from across the health service, particularly in the delivery of major infrastructure and capacity projects that are essential to the future of our services. He has demonstrated a strong track record in translating strategic investment into real, tangible improvements for patients.” 

Ms Carroll MacNeill also paid tribute to Mr Watt's work.

"When I took up the position of Minister for Health last year, it was clear to see the very real impact Robert had, not just on the Department which he has led so professionally, but also on the wider health service. The many reforms Robert put in place - most notably advancing Sláintecare, workforce changes including the Public Only Consultant Contract, expansion of medical trainee places and the introduction of the Common Conditions Service to our Pharmacies - have made a real difference in improving care for patients closer to home.”

As of 2026, the top salary for a secretary general is now set at €280,902 per year.

This is what Mr Watt’s successor is expected to be paid.

Prior to his current role as health infrastructure leader, which included advancing digital health and the Sláintecare Reform agenda, Mr Tierney served as programme director in the Government’s covid-19 vaccination taskforce. 

He has held senior roles across the Justice and Transport sectors and central Government with responsibility for large scale programmes, reform delivery, system governance and whole of Government responses.

Before moving into the Civil Service, he has also held senior roles in a commercial transport semi state and the private sector working in pharmaceutical, computer and telecoms industries.