Statement of Dr Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland on retirement of Cardinal Desmond Connell

26 Apr 2004

PRESS RELEASE

26 APRIL 2004

STATEMENT OF DR SEÀN BRADY, ARCHBISHOP OF ARMAGH & PRIMATE OF ALL IRELAND

ON RETIREMENT OF CARDINAL DESMOND CONNELL

Following the announcement by the Holy See this morning, that Pope John Paul II
has accepted the resignation of Cardinal Desmond Connell as Archbishop of Dublin,
the Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, Dr Seán Brady, issued the
following statement:

“I wish Cardinal Connell many years of happiness in retirement, after 16
strenuous but fruitful years as Archbishop of Dublin.

His clear vision, courageous honesty and outstanding integrity were of immense
assistance to the Irish Bishops’ Conference over these years and will be greatly
missed.

My best wishes go to Archbishop Martin as he takes on the heavy responsibilities
of the pastoral care of the Archdiocese of Dublin. I am confident that under his
leadership, the great resources of faith and spiritual energy of the people of
God in Dublin, will continue to flourish and bear fruit.”

ENDS

Further information:
Ms Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)