Bawnboy native appointed Archbishop of Tuam

Pope Francis has formally appointed Bawnboy native Francis Duffy Archbishop of Tuam.

Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran has congratulated Archbishop-elect Francis Duffy on his appointment and paid tribute to Archbishop Michael Neary on his retirement.

"I welcome the announcement from Rome today that Pope Francis has appointed Archbishop-elect Francis Duffy to succeed Archbishop Michael Neary as Archbishop of Tuam. It is already something of a challenge to take on the responsibility of being a bishop, but it takes considerable courage to start afresh in a new diocese.

"At a time when there is significant debate about the future contribution of the Church in the field of education, Archbishop-elect Duffy brings to his new role a great deal of experience in the world of Catholic education," said Bishop Doran.

Since 2013 Bishop Duffy has been Bishop of the Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois, which takes in some parishes in south County Cavan.

Bishop Doran said: "It has been a pleasure to work with him during this time. He will now be our neighbour in Tuam and, as Archbishop, he will be called on to exercise a leadership role among the bishops of the Tuam Ecclesiastical Province. I look forward very much to working alongside him in that role."

He wished Archbishop Michael Neary well in his retirement. "He is a wise and much-loved pastor, very deeply rooted in the Scriptures. Since I came to the West as a new bishop in 2014, I have found him most supportive and encouraging. He has facilitated an excellent working relationship among the Bishops of the Province. I take this opportunity to wish him every blessing and good health in his retirement," said Bishop Doran.