<P> If the resignation is accepted with immediate effect, the episcopal see becomes vacant on publication of the pope's decision . Vacancy of a see may occur also because of a bishop's transfer to another see or position, or because of his death . In the case of a nunc pro tunc acceptance, the see does not become vacant immediately, but the process that leads to the appointment of a successor begins without delay . </P> <P> One important element in selecting a bishop is the list of priests, of both the diocesan and the religious clergy, that the bishops of the ecclesiastical province or the whole Episcopal Conference judge to be suitable generically (without reference to any particular see) for appointment as bishops . They are required to draw up this list at least once every three years, so that it is always recent . </P> <P> When it comes to a concrete appointment for a particular see, the papal representative (apostolic nuncio or delegate) asks either the outgoing bishop, or in case of a sede vacante, the vicar general or diocesan administrator, to draw up a report on its situation and the needs . That person will be the bishop who has presented his resignation or, if the see is vacant, the diocesan administrator or apostolic administrator . The papal representative is also obliged to consult the metropolitan archbishop and the other bishops of the province, the president of the bishops conference, and at least some members of the college of consultors and the cathedral chapter . He may also consult others, whether clergy, diocesan or religious, and "lay persons of outstanding wisdom". </P> <P> Canon law insists on enabling those consulted to provide information and express their views confidentially, requiring that they be consulted "individually and in secret". Accordingly, when the Irish Times of 12 April 2007 published the text of the letter with which Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto, Nuncio to Ireland, consulted certain priests on the choice of their next bishop, he said, "All aspects relating to the process of episcopal appointments should be dealt with in the strictest confidentiality . I trust that you will understand that I cannot depart from this practice ." </P>

Appointment of bishops by anyone who is not a member of the clergy
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