The man hailed as a hero for stopping an attack on Canada's parliament building has been appointed the country's ambassador to Ireland.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has welcomed the appointment of Kevin Vickers - the former Sergeant at Arms in the Canadian House of Commons. Mr Flanagan confirmed that, at his request, the Government today approved the nomination.

Last October, Mr Vickers shot and killed a lone gunman who launched a fatal attack the parliament building in Ottawa.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper today praised Vickers’ actions in October and welcomed his appointment as ambassador, the Toronto Star reports

“Kevin Vickers has shown profound leadership and dedication to the security of Canada and its national institutions. His extensive experience working with Parliament, as well as his bravery and integrity, will serve to deepen close bilateral relations between Canada and Ireland in the years ahead,” he said.

Mr Flanagan has this evening met with the Canadian ambassador to confirm the appointment. A spokesperson for the Department says the minister hopes Mr Vickers will begin his new role before the end of January.

“I believe that Mr Vickers will be an excellent Ambassador and a great friend of Ireland during his time with us,” Mr Flanagan said.

“He has a strong Irish-Canadian background, is a very good friend of the Embassy of Ireland in Ottawa and his family have been involved in Irish affairs in New Brunswick for many years.

Minister Flanagan added:

“No-one can forget that in October 2014, he was commended by all Canadian political parties for his central role arising from the attack on the Parliament and the main war memorial in Ottawa."

On the day following the attack on the Canadian parliament, Vickers was giving a standing ovation as he entered the chamber.