Controversy over departure of popular Waterford priest

Richard Geoghegan claimed to have been 'dismissed by Rome' but the diocese says he chose to leave of his own accord

Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Alphonsus Cullinan told the 'Irish Examiner' that Mr Geoghegan had sought to leave the priesthood of his own accord.

Controversy has flared in the Diocese of Waterford over the departure of a popular priest.

Richard Geoghegan tweeted on Sunday night that he had been "officially dismissed by Rome" and claimed his "Bishop was happy to dispense" with him.