Gay and Lesbian group gives cautious welcome to Pope's comments

The Gay and Lesbian Equality Network has given a cautious welcome to comments made by Pope Francis during the week on homosexuality.

In a groundbreaking departure, the Pope insisted the Catholic Church must shake off an obsession with teachings on abortion, contraception and homosexuality and become more merciful.

GLEN director Brian Sheehan said the call for a "new balance" holds out the possibility of a new engagement with the Catholic Church on civil matters.

Mr Sheehan said: "Like all huge institutions, change takes a while to come. If this is the beginnings of a change we would welcome it, but we would like to know how that would work out in practice.

"Key issues arise, for example, homophobic bullying in schools, or for example tackling issues like Civil marriage."