The new Archbishop of Tuam says he is surprised and humbled to take up the new role in the west of Ireland.
Cavan native Bishop Francis Duffy has been named the successor to Archbishop Michael Neary this morning.
The Templeport taught at Saint Patrick's College, Cavan, and was appointed principal of Fatima and Felim's Secondary School, Ballinamore, Co Leitrim in 1996 and most recently he served as Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois since July of 2013.
He says the new role is a huge honour for him.
"I am certainly surprised and humbled to be appointed to this Archdiocese and naturally I am a little sad at leaving my own diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois."
Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo confirming the news from the Pope of the appointment of Francis Duffy as Archbishop of Tuam at the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary this morning.
Archbishop Michael Neary has overseen the Tuam region for almost 27 years, and been a bishop for close to three decades says he is "certain Archbishop elect Duffy will receive "generous assistance and support from people in every corner of the Archdiocese."
"Of your many gifts, your reputation as a hard-working, kind and generous pastoral leader - as well as being a popular bishop amongst your priests and people - precedes you. Today, on a personal level, I pray for God's blessing on your future ministry as Archbishop of Tuam."
Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran has also passed on his best wishes to the incoming Archbishop.
The 63-year-old has also joked that he will be getting familiar with google maps as he visits parishes in the area.
"To the parishioners, the priests and religious of this Archdiocese, I say that really look forward to meeting with you and working with you in the time to come. I will be on the highways and byways and the boats to visit the people in their parishes as soon as possible. So google maps will be my go to page for some time."
