Historic appointment for Navy Commodore

Commodore Mark Mellett is set to become the most senior Irish naval officer in the history of the State following his appointment as Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) of the Defence Forces.

It is expected that once a range of institutional issues are addressed, Commodore Mellet will become the first Rear Admiral in the history of the Irish Defence Forces.

Defence Minister Alan Shatter confirmed his appointment which was agreed after a Cabinet meeting on Monday.