Damian McDonald was announced as the new director general (DG) of the IFA on Wednesday morning.

The 44-year-old Wexford man, currently the chief executive of Horse Sport Ireland, will take up the role in early 2017. The announcement was made at a meeting of the IFA’s decision-making body, the executive council.

Listen to a discussion of Damian McDonald's appointment in our podcast below:

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McDonald has been a long-time favourite in the race to succeed Pat Smith, who left the organisation almost a year ago. In the immediate aftermath of Smith’s departure, McDonald was seen as an obvious and capable candidate.

The process to replace Smith began in earnest in July when business consultancy firm KPMG advertised for applications for the position. The final interview took place last Friday.

Speaking after his appointment, McDonald said: “Being from a farming background, I am very conscious of the responsibilities the position of director general of the IFA brings with it.

“I am looking forward to working with the president, the officers, the executive council, national committees and IFA’s staff team to progress the organisation and the issues affecting the farming community.”

McDonald said he will continue in his role as chief executive of Horse Sport Ireland until he serves out a notice period. “My full focus will be on that role until I formally take up the position with the IFA in the New Year.”

The DG role is new to IFA. As part of his review of the organisation in the wake of the pay controversies in 2015, former IFA economist Con Lucey recommended the splitting of roles previously held by the general secretary.

McDonald’s pay will be far lower than that of his predecessor. He will be paid a salary of €185,350, with no bonus announced. His pension contribution will be 15% of his pay, or €27,750. He will receive health insurance cover and the use of car, but, in keeping with new practice adopted for all IFA staff, will not receive any personal payment for serving on external bodies.

The scaled-down package compares with the €295,000 basic salary received by former secretary general Pat Smith in 2013, along with the pension contribution he received of €150,000 and bonus and fees of €90,000 – total of €535,000. Joe Healy will r

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