Dr. Ann Marie Courell, a native of Ballina, has been appointed Mayo’s new county registrar.
She succeeds Fintan Murphy, who retired from the role last year after long and dedicated service.
Mayo Deputy Alan Dillon has welcomed the appointment of the first ever female county registrar in the county.
Deputy Dillon said: “I have received confirmation that Dr. Ann Marie Courell has been appointed today to the position following an open recruitment competition through a public appointments process.
“Dr Courell’s appointment was brought before Cabinet by Minister for Justice, Simon Harris for approval.
“Dr Courell is a native of Ballina and is married to a local businessman.
“She has worked as a barrister in the Western Circuit for the past two decades, specialising in areas of Tort and Personal Injury Law.
“She has the distinction of being the first woman to be appointed to the position.”
Deputy Dillon said he had sought a number of updates from the Courts Service in relation to the vacancy of the position following the retirement of Fintan Murphy in March 2022.
The county registrar is a legal professional court officer in the Circuit Court, the higher of the two courts and will be based at Castlebar Courthouse.
The registrar makes orders in civil cases as well as certain other functions in relation to Circuit Court proceedings.
They also carry out the role of district probate registrar. They also act as returning officer for general and European elections and referenda.
Deputy Dillon said: “I congratulate Ann Marie and her family on the appointment.
“She is a young, bright, enthusiastic person who will bring all of her 20 years experience in the courts service with her to this new position.
“She is following in the footsteps of Mr. Murphy who must be commended for his hard work and dedication and I’m sure she will be a great asset to the role. I wish her the best of luck.”