Visit of Charles and Camilla - Growing bonds of friendship

Anam cara is an old Irish term for “soul friend” and in the Celtic tradition having one was regarded as essential to spiritual development.

The phrase was revived by John O’Donohue, the late poet, philosopher, priest and native Irish speaker much admired by Britain’s Prince Charles. In an elegant and thoughtful address, the prince quoted him yesterday at Cork City Hall during the royal visit.