Former Dublin football manager Jim Gavin has been named as the new chair of the North East Inner City (NEIC) Implementation Board.

The six time All Ireland winning manager takes over from Michael Stone who stepped down from the role in January after it emerged that a donation from him to Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe was not declared by Mr Donohoe during the 2020 general election campaign.

Jim Gavin will take up the role with immediate effect on a pro-bono basis.

Commenting following the announcement, local Independent councillor Christy Burke welcomed Mr Gavin as the new chair.

“Mr Gavin is no stranger to the field of the north inner city.

“He knows the needs and wants of those in this area.

“The former coach is a very suitable appointment and has the knowledge to know how to approach the issues here.”

The NEIC Programme Implementation Board is accountable for the delivery of the project plan and for the management of ring-fenced funds available for implementation.

The board meets every month and comprises the key Government departments and agencies that have statutory responsibility for delivery of services alongside community and business representatives.