The speculation has been fuelled by reports that
Cardinal Brady is due to step down before the end of the year, a claim
denied by the Catholic Church.
However, it has been reported the Vatican is in the process of appointing a coadjutor bishop - a senior clergyman with the right of succession - and that it is hoped someone will be appointed by the end of the year. Mons. Martin has been named as one of five possible candidates for the position.
A church spokesperson has played down the speculation, however, saying, “It is the responsibility of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI to appoint cardinals and no-one can second guess that.”
However, it has been reported the Vatican is in the process of appointing a coadjutor bishop - a senior clergyman with the right of succession - and that it is hoped someone will be appointed by the end of the year. Mons. Martin has been named as one of five possible candidates for the position.
A church spokesperson has played down the speculation, however, saying, “It is the responsibility of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI to appoint cardinals and no-one can second guess that.”