[From top: Taoiseach Enda Kenny meets Pope Francis at the Vatican yesterday, and later stands next to Cardinal Seán Brady as he was interviewed on RTÉ’s Six One News last night]

Yesterday Pope Francis declared John Paul II and John XXIII as saints in St Peter’s Square in Rome.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny attended the ceremony and met with Pope Francis afterwards, during which he invited the pontiff to Ireland.

Afterwards, Mr Kenny was interviewed by RTÉ.

During this interview, he stood next to Cardinal Seán Brady, who was given names and addresses of children who were being abused, or who were at risk of being abused, by Fr Brendan Smyth, in 1975, but failed to ensure they were protected.

Mr Kenny told Six One:

“I have to say that I invited him to Ireland and, while it’s not an official responsibility of the Government, I did say that if the church authorities extended an invitation and that he’s willing to travel, the Government will see to it that everything is done to make that visit a real success.”

Meanwhile, RTÉ journalist Tony Connolly reported:

“Controversy surrounds both men [John Paul II and John XXIII], particularly John Paul the second, who faced criticism over his handling of clerical sex abuse cases. However, the church insists that it’s their very humanity in itself which is a prerequisite for sainthood.

Watch back here

Previously: Cardinal Brady: More Than Just A Note Taker

(H/T: Ringos Dove)