The Holy Father Francis today received in audience the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland, His Excellency Mr. Enda Kenny, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, secretary for Relations with States.

The cordial discussions evoked the historic bond between the Holy See and Ireland, and underlined the constant contribution guaranteed by the Catholic Church in the social and educational fields. Attention was also paid to the importance of the role of Christians in the public sphere, especially in the promotion of respect for the dignity of every person, starting with the weakest and defenceless.

The conversation continued with an exchange of views on Europe, with particular reference to the migratory phenomenon, youth employment and the main challenges that the continent is called to face from a political and institutional point of view.