Meet Seán

Please tell us a little bit about your role.

As an Administrative Officer in the Tax Division of the Department of Finance, I have been involved in a number of tasks, including the preparation of briefing for the Minister of Finance as part of Finance Bill 2023, working on the Department’ Tax Expenditure reporting, as well as working on the Political Party Costings service. I have also had the chance to attend the Dáil and Seanad at different stages of the legislative process.

What were your reasons for applying for your role?

I have always had an interest in current affairs and enjoyed studying macro and regional economics as part of my undergraduate studies. I applied for this role as I believed the duties I would be carrying out would allow me to work in the fields I had an interest in.

What do you value most about your job?

I enjoy the wide variety of exciting tasks that I carry out. Given the nature of the role, every week brings new tasks on important and topical issues in Irish society.

What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?

The Department offer many training and further education opportunities. I am enrolled in a Professional Diploma in Tax Policy and Practice and have the opportunity to pursue further Masters opportunities after I have completed it.

What opportunities has this role provided for you?

This role has given me the chance to take part in the legislative process for Finance Bill 2023, including working on briefing material, preparing Budget Day publications and attending the Dáil and Seanad.

What has surprised you since starting this role?

I have been surprised by the immediate level of trust and responsibility given to me by my more experienced colleagues. I have been given the opportunity to directly contribute to important work in the Department

What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?

I enjoy being able to participate in and contribute to the political process such as attending the Dáil and Seanad to assist the Minister during the legislative process.

Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?

I would definitely recommend a career in the public sector due to the extensive further education opportunities they offer.

Anything else you would like to share?

Overall the role as AO in the Department of Finance has been very different to what I expected. It has been engaging and exciting and everyone in the Department has been very supportive and encouraging.