Paul Keenan
A national lay initiative which grew out of the Government’s decision to close Ireland’s embassy to the Holy See is set to grow in 2012 with a high-profile public meeting with political leaders scheduled later this month beside the Dáil.
The group Ireland Stand Up describes itself as ”one of several national lay initiatives respectfully campaigning to reverse this Government’s decision to close Ireland’s Embassy to the Holy See” and to invite the Pope to Ireland for the closing of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in June.
The group has already held a national postcard campaign to lobby the Taoiseach Enda Kenny to reverse his Government’s decision to close the embassy and was inundated with requests for cards and public support.
The Irish Catholic also understands that Government deputies, particularly Fine Gael members, have expressed deep disquiet about the decision of Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore to effectively downgrade Ireland’s historic relationship with the Holy See by closing the embassy.
The group is now calling on people around the country to come to Buswell’s Hotel beside the Dáil on Kildare Street on Wednesday January 18 ”to voice concerns and request the reversal of the decision to close the embassy and to invite the Pope to IEC2012”.
According to a spokesperson, Taoiseach Enda Kenny has indicated that he is unable to attend the meeting but that Mr Gilmore may yet agree to attend. The group reports enormous support for its postcard campaign from Mayo, the home constituency of the Taoiseach and have requested a private meeting with Mr Kenny as soon as possible to voice their concerns.
The spokeswoman also indicated that there are several TDs who have indicated a desire to meet with the group and are supportive of its aims and objectives.
It comes as the Pope’s new representative to Ireland papal nuncio Dr Charles Brown is expected in Ireland to present his credentials to President Michael D. Higgins and take up his appointment.