Irish premier meets with Pontiff, announces papal visit in 2018
November 28, 2016
Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) Enda Kenny met on November 28 with Pope Francis, and later told reporters that the Pontiff had promised to visit Ireland in 2018.
The Vatican, in a brief statement released after the visit, did not mention a papal visit. The Vatican statement said that the conversation had centered on the role of the Church in Ireland, “especially in the promotion of respect for the dignity of every person, starting with the weakest and defenseless.” The Vatican added that the Pope and Kenny spoke about immigration, youth unemployment, and the challenges facing Europe.
In response to questions after the event, Kenny declined to comment on a report that he had planned to speak with the Pope about several Irish priests who have been disciplined for their dissent from Catholic moral and doctrinal teachings.
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Further information:
- Taoiseach says Pope will visit Ireland in 2018 (RTE)
- Pope Francis receives in audience the Taoiseach of Ireland (Vatican press office)
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