‘Too Irish’ to work in Dan Andrews’ office as premier accused of racism: Victoria

Daniel Andrews’ government is facing allegations of ‘shocking racism … at the highest level’ after a former senior bureaucrat claimed his career was cut short because he was ‘too Irish’.

Dublin-born Nial Finegan said the alleged slur ended his successful career in the Victorian public service, but Mr Andrews’ Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) denies it happened. 

The alleged incident took place more than three years ago, but Mr Finegan was prompted to go public about it after being angered by Mr Andrews last weekend.

‘Interesting that Daniel Andrews is looking to recruit Irish people given that in 2019 I was told by the head of his Department DPC that I was “too Irish” would never get another job in (the Victorian public service),’ Mr Finegan said in a tweet.

‘Shocking racism and exclusion at the highest level!’

Mr Finegan, who had worked as secretary of the Department of Justice and CEO of Environment Protection Authority Victoria, said his career ended after a meeting in January 2019 with the then head of the DPC.

‘I went to see Chris Eccles about possible career opportunities, he said “Nial, this is really important for you to understand, and your career going forward. 

‘”You won’t hold another senior role in the public service,”‘ Mr Finegan claimed. 

Shocked by he heard, Mr Finegan asked why and was allegedly told by Mr Eccles ‘Well, how can I say it, you’re just too Irish.’

‘When the head of the public service tells you, as another senior public servant … that you’re too Irish to have a role in the public service, that’s out of order,’ Mr Finegan said. 

But his claim has been rejected by the department who deny the allegations. 

‘Former DPC secretary Mr Chris Eccles has found the accusation of racism deeply offensive,’ it said in a statement. 

‘Public sector entities are also required by law to recruit based on merit and suitability for all roles.’ 

Mr Finegan’s claim has also been rejected out of hand by the Victorian Premier. 

‘That’s just nonsense, just nonsense. I was welcoming a nurse from Dublin on Sunday, for heaven’s sake,’ Mr Andrews said. 

But Mr Finegan maintains his recollection is true.  

‘It is absolutely ridiculous, but it was a statement made by the head of his public service,’ he told Nine news.

‘It’s clearly a ridiculous statement and it highlights the bias that some people have.’ 

Mr Eccles resigned from the Victorian public service in late 2020 as part of the fallout from the state’s hotel quarantine inquiry.

Mr Finegan said he does not want an apology, he just doesn’t want others to be treated the same way he claims he was. 

Daily Mail Australia has sought Mr Eccles for comment.