Ian (pictured above in the second row, second from the left) has been a member of the IRFU Union Committee since 2008. He has worked on the IRFU's Management and Rugby Committees, chaired a number of IRFU Sub-Committees and working parties, and is a trustee of the IRFU Charitable Trust.
A retired school principal, Ian lives in Ballymena with his wife Pamela. He is a former Ireland international - capped five times between 1976 and 1977 - and also captained Ballymena RFC before moving into coaching both at school and club level.
Having served as Chairman of Rugby Development for Ballymena, Ian became Chairman of the club in 1987 before taking up the position of club President from 2000-2008. He has been a club representative on the IRFU (Ulster Branch) since 2000.
Congratulating Ian on his role, outgoing Rugby Chairman Stephen Hilditch said: "The Irish Rugby Football Rugby is pleased to confirm Ian McIlrath as the incoming Chairman of the IRFU Rugby Committee.
"Our domestic game is the bedrock of Irish rugby and I know that it is in safe hands as I have worked with Ian for many years and I wish him every success in the years ahead."
Speaking about the new position, Ian stated: "I am delighted to have been selected as Chairman of the Rugby Committee. I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Stephen and congratulate him on the developments that have taken place in our game during his time as Chairman.
"I wish to thank my 'rugby widow' Pamela, my daughter Anne and all our family for the support they have provided over the last 40 years, and for sharing me with my rugby family."