A brief biography

Liz O’Donnell was born in Dublin, studied at Trinity College Law School, and after graduation, had a career as a lawyer. She was first elected to Dublin City Council in 1991 for the Rathmines Ward. She had earlier been Vice Chair of the Women’s Political Association and had worked on the Presidential Campaign of Mary Robinson.

Liz O’Donnell has a diverse portfolio of activities including broadcasting, journalism, public affairs consultancy and lecturing. She is currently Chair of the Irish Emergency Alliance, a coalition of eight Irish humanitarian organisations that respond collectively to major international disasters including wars, earthquakes and famine.

Liz previously served as Director of Policy, Government Affairs and Communications for MSD Ireland until 2021. She also served as Chair of the Road Safety Authority from 2014 to October 2024, completing two five-year terms.

She lives in Dublin and has two adult children.

Liz’s prior positions

Liz was also an opinion columnist in the Irish Independent daily newspaper which enjoys the biggest readership in Ireland. She wrote mainly on politics and public affairs.

In 2008 Liz O’Donnell wrote and presented a four-part documentary series for RTE called “Far Away Up Close”, which dealt with the Irish overseas aid programme…
She also participates in TV and radio programmes, particularly related to her time as Minister and her involvement in the Good Friday negotiations. Read more…

Liz O’Donnell was first elected to the Dáil in 1992 and served as Progressive Democrats TD for Dublin South from 1992 to 2007.
She was Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs from 1997 -2002 and in this capacity had a role in Anglo Irish relations. She was Chief Whip of the Progressive Democrats and Deputy Leader of the Progressive Democrats. She retired from politics following the 2007 General Election. Read more…

Although Liz retired from politics in 2007, she has remained active in public life and is involved in a wide range of activities. Liz engages in charitable work and fundraising and is a long-time Director of Chernobyl Children International, the charity founded by Adi Roche which supports communities affected by the environmental and health consequences of the 1986 Chornobyl nuclear disaster.

She also continues to contribute to media, broadcasting and public affairs discussions and previously acted as an advisor in the boardroom to Caroline Downey on the TV3 series, Celebrity Apprentice. Read more…