President Michael D. Higgins has led political tributes following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.
The President met with the Pope on five occasions and spoke fondly about their discussions, saying the “warmth and encouragement offered by Pope Francis was greatly valued by Sabina and myself."
“During his visit to Ireland, Pope Francis spoke of the scandal of child abuse, including in the Church, and its consequences for victims and families,” Higgins said.
“On such matters, and on others such as attitudes towards women and those of the LGBTQ+ community within the Church, Pope Francis sought to play a positive role. I recall at the end of our meetings he would say as to his work on such issues, ‘it is very difficult’, as he asked for and offered prayers. It is important that the steps he took are built upon as they constitute a source of hope in the years to come.
“In paying tribute to Pope Francis' legacy, may we all reflect on the ethical approach that is necessary to tackle the many vital issues, including the serious danger of what he termed ‘the globalisation of indifference’, to which he drew the attention of office holders and their publics.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Pope Francis holds “a special place in the heart of the Irish people."
“During his visit to Ireland in August 2018 for the World Meeting of Families, he was welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm that spoke volumes about the respect and affection in which he was held by Irish people.
“During his visit to Ireland, many will also remember Pope Francis’ expression of pain and shame about historic child abuse in the Catholic Church and his outrage about the failure of Church authorities to adequately address these appalling crimes.
“I had the honour of meeting Pope Francis in Dublin Castle during that visit and was impressed by his vision of a Catholic Church that is open, compassionate, and focused on the needs of the most vulnerable.
"He shared with us his deep concern with the issues of social justice and human rights, and his profound commitment to alleviating suffering.”
In the North, First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly also expressed their sympathy following the death of Pope Francis.
Michelle O'Neill said Pope Francis was “a champion of peace and harmony."
“He showed great support for our own peace process and his visit to Ireland in 2018 will be cherished by many.”
Deputy First Minister Pengelly said: “I know that his loss will be felt deeply, particularly by his church and the many congregations here and throughout the globe. I offer my sincere condolences to all those who mourn the passing of Pope Francis."
