BREAKING: Limerick leader of the HSE to step down after almost 40 years of public service

CEO of the HSE, Bernard Gloster will step down in March 2026 - three years on from his appointment. 

The Limerick man will retire from the public service next year after almost 40 years in the public health service, it was confirmed in a statement this Tuesday morning.

Born in 1966, he grew up in Limerick city, but now resides in Kildimo.

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“I continue to be privileged to serve in this very important role and for the coming months I will be working hard with the board, the minister, and the department to advance many improvements and responses to challenges,” said Mr Gloster.

He has 38 years experience working in the health service and held a number of senior management positions. These included nine years as chief officer of HSE Mid-West Community Healthcare and three years as chief executive of Tusla before being appointed CEO of the HSE.

Mr Gloster said he wanted to bring certainty to the future leadership of the organisation as he is now in his third year as CEO. 

“I have today submitted my resignation to the chair of the HSE, Ciaran Devane and Minister Carroll MacNeill, allowing time to prepare for the next phase of leadership of our health and personal social services.

"I particularly want to thank the chair and the minister for the kindness shown to me during this significant personal decision. I will retire from the public service on March 5, 2026. 

“I also want to express my deep appreciation to all of our staff for the work they continue to do every day to serve the public,” concluded Mr Gloster.

Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill extended her enormous thanks to Mr Gloster, describing him as an extraordinary public servant, who has dedicated himself, seven days a week, to improving the health service for everyone in Ireland.

“Since he took over his position in 2023, Bernard has brought over 30 years of public sector experience to advance leadership across the HSE organisation and I have greatly appreciated his work, his expertise and his friendship in my short time as minister.

"I look forward to working with him in the coming months to continue our good work to advance a health system that works better for all,” said Ms MacNeill.