Kenny refuses to confirm McCarthy appointment as Vatican ambassador

The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has refused to say if the Government considered appointing former civil servant Dermot McCarthy as Ireland's ambassador to the Vatican.

Mr Kenny also said no decision has yet been taken on whether the embassy at the Vatican will be kept open.

Former Secretary General at the Department of the Taoiseach, Dermot McCarthy, hit the headlines this week after he received a controversial €700,000 pension package on his retirement.

The Taoiseach has refused to comment on speculation that Mr McCarthy is being considered as a possible ambassador to the Holy See.