Matthew Carlson
Councillors in South Dublin have rejected a call to fly the traditional Papal flag during the Pope’s historic trip here next month.
Renua Councillor Ronan McMahon had proposed that the flag – the official flag of the Holy See – would fly above South Dublin County Hall in Tallagh during the visit. However, his motion was defeated 11 to nine votes, with several abstentions. Cllr McMahon expressed his disappointment that the council wouldn’t support the visit of the Pope. “If there is going to be any reconciliation for the wrongs of the past, we have to start somewhere,” said Cllr McMahon.
Cllr McMahon continued that Pope Francis is trying to make amends and support the poor and powerless. Clondalkin Councillor Francis Timmons was one of the representatives that did not support the motion. He said he “couldn’t support it”, based on how he believes the Church treats members of the gay community. The Vatican flag will fly over Áras an Uachtaráin and Dublin Castle when the Pope comes to Ireland, as is customary with the visit of a head of state.