I offer my sincere congratulations and prayers to Bishop Dermot Farrell, a former priest of the Diocese of Meath, on his appointment by Pope Francis as Archbishop of Dublin. I know that his appointment will be welcomed by the priests and people of the Diocese of Meath and, particularly of Castletown Geoghegan, his native parish, and of Dunboyne & Kilbride, where he served as Parish Priest until his appointment as Bishop of Ossory three years ago.
Archbishop-Elect Dermot served in this diocese with total commitment, integrity, courage and energy and is remembered with admiration and held in the highest esteem. These attributes will serve him well as he begins a new ministry as Archbishop of Dublin and Primate of Ireland. While the task is not easy, Archbishop-Elect Dermot has the experience and qualities for the post as well as the good wishes, prayers and pride of the people of Castletown Geoghegan, Dunboyne and the Diocese of Meath. On behalf of Bishop Michael Smith, whom he served as Vicar General, and myself, I assure him of our support and prayers and congratulate him most warmly.
Today is also a significant day for Archbishop Diarmuid Martin who is able to set aside the burden of office after serving as Archbishop of Dublin for sixteen years. I wish him health and happiness in retirement and assure him that his ministry and contribution to the critical areas of the Church’s response and approach to the survivors of clerical abuse and to the role of the Church in education have been appreciated, have served the Church well and will be remembered positively.
ENDS
- Bishop Tom Deenihan is Bishop of Meath
For media contact: Annette O’Donnell +353 878143462 director of communications for the Archdiocese of Dublin, and Martin Long +353 861727678 director of the Catholic Communications Office, Maynooth.
