Rosemary Steen, Director of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), has welcomed the appointment of Owen Keegan as Chair of the organisation by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD. Ms Steen also thanked the outgoing Chair Tom Dunne for his significant service to the RTB.
Speaking on Mr Keegan’s appointment, Minister O’Brien said:
“I am pleased to appoint Owen Keegan as Chair of the Residential Tenancies Board. A well-regulated rental sector that meets the needs of both tenants and landlords is a vital part of a well-functioning housing sector. The RTB plays an important role in ensuring this is achieved.”
“Owen brings a wealth of experience and a long track record of public service to the RTB’s Board. His knowledge of local government and his understanding of the RTB from his recent term as Interim Director will be invaluable as the agency works to address increased demand for its services. I would also like to thank Tom Dunne for his contribution as Chair of the RTB, where he has served two five-year terms since the formation of the Board.”
Commenting on the appointment, Ms Steen said:
“I congratulate Owen Keegan on his appointment as Chair of the Residential Tenancies Board. As the regulator of Ireland’s rental sector, the RTB plays a vital role in Irish society and I look forward to working together with Owen to deliver a rental sector that works for the people of Ireland. I would also like to thank our outgoing Chair Tom Dunne for his significant service to the RTB over many years.”
Owen Keegan previously served as Chief Executive of Dublin City Council from 2013 to 2023, and as County Manager with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council from 2006 to 2013. Prior to these roles, Mr Keegan worked as Assistant City Manager and Director of Traffic for Dublin City Council. He has also held positions as an economist in DKM Economic Consultants/Davy Stockbrokers, the Department of Finance, the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. Mr Keegan most recently served as Interim Director of the RTB from February to August 2024.
Mr Keegan succeeds Tom Dunne as Chairperson. Mr Dunne served as the inaugural Chair of what was then the Private Residential Tenancies Board from 2004 to 2009. He was subsequently re-appointed for a second term as Chair from October 2019 to October 2024.