President Higgins leads Irish tributes to the late Pope Francis
President Michael D Higgins has led tributes from Ireland following the death of Pope Francis, remembering him as a spiritual leader of profound humility and a champion of global ethics in the face of modern challenges.
The Vatican confirmed the Pope's death this morning. He had been recovering from pneumonia in recent weeks.
In a statement, President Higgins described Pope Francis as a figure of "warmth" and 'unique humility,' whose voice served as a "consistent invocation of a shared humanity."
The President commended the late pontiff for speaking out on "vital issues of our time" including global hunger, poverty, climate change, and justice.
"These issues I had the privilege of discussing at length with Pope Francis across our five meetings over the course of his papacy," the President said.
He also acknowledged Pope Francis' role in addressing sensitive topics within the Catholic Church, including the child abuse scandal, attitudes toward women, and the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community.
"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," President 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 of 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."
Peace and Solidarity
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Pope Francis' enduring legacy is one of "peace, reconciliation, and solidarity," and noted the Pope's powerful global influence during his long and distinguished papacy.
Pope Francis as he arrives in the Phoenix Park in his Pope Mobile. Picture: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie
"He spoke out for the poor, the marginalised, and the oppressed," the Taoiseach said, highlighting Pope Francis' advocacy for refugees, climate action, and global equality.
Offering condolences on behalf of the Government and the Irish people, Mr Martin described the pontiff as a "champion of justice in the modern world" and recalled his warm reception during the 2018 World Meeting of Families in 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," he added.
Pope's Teachings Will Endure
Tánaiste Simon Harris described Pope Francis as a "remarkable figure" whose influence "transcended the Vatican" and whose moral leadership guided many through uncertain times.
In his tribute, Mr Harris praised the Pope's continued relevance on pressing issues such as poverty, migration, and refugee rights.
"Pope Francis bore his illness with great dignity and courage," he said. "We find strength in his message of hope, mercy, and compassion, which will continue to inspire us to build a better world for all."
He extended condolences to the Catholic community worldwide, the College of Cardinals, and all who mourn the loss of a globally respected spiritual leader.
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