Dublin – April 2004. The Order’s Chief Chaplain of Ireland, Cardinal Desmond Connell, has retired as Archbishop of Dublin in accordance with canon law.
The Cardinal’s successor, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin, said: “It is a day for all of us to recognize the years of service of Cardinal Connell to the Church in Dublin and beyond. The priests and people of Dublin thank him and will accompany him in the coming years with their prayers and affection. I know also that I can count on the faith and support of the Catholic people of the diocese of Dublin.”
Archbishop Sean Brady of Armagh, the Catholic Primate of All Ireland, in a statement said: “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.”
The Chancery also wishes to extend to His Eminence every good wish in his much deserved retirement and looks forward to his continued support and involvement with the Order’s Delegation in Ireland.