Nigel Heneghan on Positive Reputation and Trust in the Public Sector

Nigel Heneghan, Managing Director at Heneghan, was recently featured in the Public Affairs Ireland Review where he spoke about how positive reputation and trust are essential to the public sector.

“In Ireland, the public service is more than a system,” Nigel writes. “It is a cornerstone of our democracy and a trusted partner in the lives of every citizen.” He emphasises that communication lies at the core of that trust, and when it’s carefully planned and activated, it becomes the foundation of a positive reputation.

Reflecting on Heneghan’s experience working with a wide range of public bodies across health, education, transport and local government, Nigel highlights that reputation is not a luxury, but a necessity. It enables effective policy delivery, fosters public compliance and sustains institutional legitimacy.

While recent controversies have tested trust in parts of the public sector, Ireland’s public institutions have shown remarkable resilience. “Reputation is fragile,” he notes, “but with clear, strategic communication, recovery is always possible.”

You can read Nigel Heneghan’s full review in the Public Affairs Ireland Review (17^th Edition) here.

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