Mayo native set to retire as Chief of Staff of Defence Forces

CASTLEBAR'S Vice Admiral Mark Mellett is to retire from his position as Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces this autumn.

The government this morning accepted the recommendation of the Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney, to nominate Major General Seán Clancy for appointment as Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces.

He will take up the position when Vice Admiral Mellett retires on September 29.

Minister Coveney paid tribute to Vice Admiral Mellett for his 'outstanding contribution' as Chief of Staff over the last six years.

“On behalf of the government, I would like to wish him well in his future endeavours and to thank him for his hard work and commitment over many years of service in the Defence Forces. The leadership, professionalism and dedication shown by him has brought great honour on the Defence Forces and on this nation as a whole,” said the minister.

Major General Seán Clancy, who joined the Irish Defence Forces in 1984, has been a driver of change and a champion for innovation within the Defence Forces.

Said Minister Coveney: “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Major General Clancy on his new appointment and I look forward to working closely with him in the future.”