Some of the best events for all the family this week, compiled by Colette Keane

Priests have welcomed a letter from Pope Francis which allows them discretion to formally forgive women who have had abortions.

The Association of Catholic Priests has accused the Vatican of trying to silence its founding member Fr Tony Flannery and warned the move will exacerbate the perceived “disconnect” between the Irish Church and Rome.

AN Bord Pleanala gave the go-ahead yesterday to the controversial €680 million Meath motorway between Clonee and Kells — despite major objections and a protracted appeals hearing.