President Michael D. Higgins pays tribute to the late Pope Francis

Opinion
22 Apr 25

Pope Francis at the Vatican in 2016. Credit: Long Thiên

"Mar Uachatarán na hÉireann, as President of Ireland, may I join with all those across the world, from their different stations in life, who have expressed such profound sadness on learning of the death of Pope Francis," President Michael D. Higgins said.

The Vatican has announced the death of Pope Francis at age 88.

The Pope died of a stroke on April 21 following a series of health complications earlier this year. His funeral is expected to take place on Saturday, April 26, outside St. Peter's Basilica.

President Michael D. Higgins led Irish tributes to Pope Francis, expressing admiration for his "unique humility".

The President said Pope Francis spoke of "the vital issues of our time" and focused on the "essential dignity of each human person" in his work.

"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," the President said.

"Pope Francis spoke of the scandal of child abuse, including in the Church, and its consequences for victims and families," he continued, speaking of the Pope's visit to Ireland in 2018. "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."

Taoiseach Micheál Martin offered his condolences on behalf of the Irish government, saying Pope Francis' papacy was "marked by his unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, peace and human dignity."

"Pope Francis holds a special place in the hearts of Irish people," Martin said. "During his visit to Ireland in August 2018 for the World Meeting of Families he was welcomed with a warmth and enthusiasm that spoke volumes about the respect and affection in which he was held by the Irish people."

First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O'Neill, said she is "very sad" to hear of the Pope's death, saying he was "a man of great faith and a strong, determined leader."

"During his visit to Ireland in 2018, he spoke passionately in support of the peace process," O'Neill said. "He also marked the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, giving thanks for the peace it delivered in Ireland."

"Catholics right across the world, including here in Ireland, will feel his loss deeply," she added.

Pope Francis was born in Argentina as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936 and was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013.

A conclave is expected to take place within 15 to 20 days of the Pope's death, in which 135 cardinals will elect a successor.