Judging Panel

Heather Humphries

Former Government Minister

Heather Humphreys is a former Fine Gael politician who served as a TD for Cavan–Monaghan from 2011 to 2024. Throughout her political career, she held several senior ministerial roles, including Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht, Minister for Business, Enterprise & Innovation,  Minister for Social Protection, Minister for Rural & Community Development and Minister for Justice. 

She was Deputy Leader of Fine Gael before announcing her retirement from national politics in 2024.  Prior to her Dáil career she worked as Manager of Cootehill Credit Union and also served on Monaghan County Council and was Mayor in 2009. 

She is recognised for her leadership across multiple government departments and her long-standing service in Irish politics.