The Vatican has recognised the “moral courage” of an Irish priest who helped save thousands of Jewish people and Allied PoWs from the Nazis during the Second World War in occupied Rome.

A prestigious humanitarian award, which honours an heroic Cork-born priest and was initially introduced for individuals, now includes organisations and teams.

A statue is to be erected in Killarney commemorating Second World War hero Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty, who risked his life to save over 6,500 Jewish people and British POWs from the Nazis in German-occupied Rome.

As plans to erect a monument in Killarney to renowned humanitarian Mgr Hugh O’Flaherty progress, a trip to Rome is being organised for devotees of the war hero.