Pope Francis will visit Ireland later this year, but will find a different country to that which welcomed his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, almost four decades ago.

A toy rabbit, a Tipperary jersey and poster, a photo album, books, a souvenir of the Olympic Games and model dogs: some symbols of the short but happy life of Emily Wilson who passed away at the weekend and was laid to rest yesterday.

EVEN as their most senior leaders urged a fresh look at the child abuse indemnity deal which let religious congregations off lightly in terms of financial recompense, diocesan bishops displayed a marked reluctance to get involved in the controversy.