New Bishop of Cashel to be elected next month

A new Church of Ireland Bishop of Cashel and Ossory is to be elected at the end of next month, it emerged today.

The Rt Rev Peter Barrett resigned the position on January 25 because he and his wife Anne were separating.

The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr John Neill announced today that he has convened an Episcopal Electoral College to meet in Dublin’s Christchurch Cathedral on March 31 to elect a new bishop.

The office holder’s area of responsibility will include the dioceses of Cashel, Waterford and Lismore, with Ossory, Ferns and Leighlin.

The Episcopal Electoral College consists of Dr Neill, three Church of Ireland bishops and 48 clerical and lay representatives from Cashel and Ossory and other dioceses in the southern province.

“The college may elect a current bishop or a male or female priest over 30 years of age,” a Church of Ireland spokesman said.

“To be elected, a nominee must receive the votes of at least two-thirds of the clergy and laity present.

“If the college is unable to reach a decision, the appointment will pass to the 11-member House of Bishops.

“A result may be known before 5pm on the day.”

Rev Barrett was consecrated as Bishop of Cashel and Ossory in January 2003.

His wife, Anne is employed as a social work team leader with mental health services in the southeast.