Former Green Party leader Trevor Sargent has been ordained a deacon in the Church of Ireland Diocese of Cashel, Ferns & Ossory.

The ceremony took place in Shillelagh, Co Wicklow this afternoon.

As well as preparing for his ordination, Mr Sargent has been studying for a Masters degree in Theology at Trinity College Dublin.

The former TD for Dublin North, 57, was appointed Minister of State for Food in the Fianna Fáil/Green Party coalition.

He resigned in 2010 and lost his seat in the 2011 election.

Reverend Sargent, who lives in Wexford, will serve as deacon in Tullow Group of Parishes.