Sinéad Gibney

Early life and education Gibney was born and grew up in Blackrock.

Gibney graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History and Politics from Ulster University. During her time at Ulster, Gibney was a Student Union officer and president. She went on to complete a Master of Science (MSc) in IT and Education at Trinity College Dublin; a postgraduate certificate in Cyberpsychology at Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT); and another MSc in Equality Studies at University College Dublin (UCD).

Early career Before entering politics, Gibney was the Chief Commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC). and previously worked as head of social action at Google.

Political career Gibney ran for a seat on Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council in the Blackrock area at the 2019 local elections on behalf of the Social Democrats, but was not successful. In 2024, she stood for the party in Dublin at the 2024 European Parliament elections, placing 9th.

In May 2024, Gibney's decision to step down as IHREC chief commissioner to run for the European Parliament raised concerns about politicisation and conflicts of interest. Internal meetings acknowledged risks to IHREC's impartiality, leading to governance measures like updating its risk register and limiting Gibney's duties. While no conflicts were logged, her attendance at a leadership forum against most commissioners' advice drew criticism. Gibney defended her actions, citing her commitment to a professional handover. She denied her departure was tied to pay discussions and highlighted personal financial sacrifices for her campaign, amid earlier informal talks with the Social Democrats.

At the 2024 general election, Gibney was elected to the Dáil in the Dublin Rathdown constituency. On immigration, she supports a pro-immigration position, particularly regarding international protection and asylum policy. She has also defended trans rights, prisoner rights, and anti-racism measures. She has been open about quitting drinking and the positive impact sobriety has had on her life.

In March 2025 in the Dáil Éireann Register of Interests, Gibney declared that she rents out a property in Blackrock, Dublin and did not list her occupation as a landlord, indicating her rental income in the relevant period did not exceed €2,600. She also declared in the Register of Interests that this is the sole property she owns.