Ireland’s first financial literacy ambassadors appointed

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, Press Association

Ireland’s first financial literacy ambassadors have been appointed.

Gráinne Griffin is director of financial education at the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, a new division established in July 2026, and was a senior manager with the Citizens Information Board.

She holds a bachelor of social science from University College Dublin, and diplomas in law and employment law from the Institute of Public Administration and the Law Society of Ireland.

Denis Carrigan is the president of the Association of Teachers of Home Economics, and is a home economics teacher at St Laserian’s Special School, Co Carlow.

The roles aim to increase awareness and understanding of financial matters to Irish citizens.

The move is part of an EU-wide financial literacy campaign in which the European Commission has asked EU countries to appoint between one and three financial literacy ambassadors.

There is no remuneration for the roles, as set out by the European Commission, although expenses for travel and other necessary costs “may be provided”.

The appointments were made “solely at the discretion” of the Minister for Finance.

Tánaiste and Finance Minister Simon Harris said Ms Griffin and Mr Carrigan will bring “passion, expertise and energy” to their roles.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to make the best of their money, whatever their circumstances,” he said.

“Whether its managing day-to-day finances, planning for major life events or investing for the future – having the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions can make a real difference.

We want people to feel empowered to save and invest, and to have access to trusted information that helps them make choices that are right for them

“As we prepare to introduce the new Investment Account, building financial literacy and confidence has never been more important.

“We want people to feel empowered to save and invest, and to have access to trusted information that helps them make choices that are right for them.

“Our ambassadors will act as trusted, accessible voices who will help promote the tools, knowledge and supports available to improve financial literacy, while also encouraging a broader conversation about the importance of financial wellbeing across society.

“I look forward to working with them as we continue to improve financial literacy, strengthen financial resilience and help more people build a secure financial future.”