Irish EU role vital, says Pope

POPE JOHN PAUL II told President Mary McAleese yesterday that Ireland has an “essential role” to play in affirming its Christian identity in an enlarged European Union.

The frail pontiff appeared in good form as he welcomed President McAleese and read a brief speech after their 10 minutes of private talks.

“Ireland, with its rich Christian history and its outstanding patrimony of spiritual and cultural values, has an essential role to play in the building of the new Europe and the affirmation of its deepest identity,” said John Paul.