Gilmore insists diplomatic relations with Vatican remain ‘very strong’

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has insisted that diplomatic relations with the Vatican remain “very strong” despite a furore over the closure of Ireland’s embassy to the Holy See.

In an interview with Vatican Radio, the Labour leader also said that it was hoped the Government could examine locations for embassies once the country’s finances improved.

A campaign by TDs from Mr Gilmore’s coalition partner Fine Gael to call for its re-instatement is gathering momentum, with Lucinda Creighton, the junior foreign affairs minister, backing demands for the embassy’s doors to be reopened.