‘Ireland plays an essential role in the building of the new Europe’

06 Nov 2003

PRESS RELEASE

6 NOVEMBER 2003

‘IRELAND PLAYS AN ESSENTIAL ROLE

IN THE BUILDING OF THE NEW EUROPE’

Today the Pope received in audience Mary McAleese, President of Ireland,
on the occasion of her visit to Rome in order to participate in the
celebrations for the 375th anniversary of the Pontifical Irish College.

John Paul II expressed his “deep affection for the Irish people” and
asked the president to convey his “warm greetings and the assurance of
his prayers” to the citizens of her country.

“Ireland,” he said, “with its rich Christian history and its outstanding
patrimony of spiritual and cultural values, has an essential role to play
in the building of the new Europe and the affirmation of its deepest
identity. It is my hope,” he concluded, “that the Gospel message will
provide continued inspiration and encouragement to all who are committed
to the advancement of Ireland in the path of justice and solidarity, and
above all in the great work of national reconciliation.”

Source: Vatican Information Service

Ends
6th November 2003

Further information:

Catholic Communications Office: (01) 505 3000
Fr Martin Clarke: (087) 220 8044
Ms Brenda Drumm: (087) 233 7797