Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

I, too, join the other party leaders in congratulating Cardinal Ratzinger on his election as the 265th Pope. He comes to the papacy at a very challenging time for the Catholic church. Pope John Paul was admired for many reasons. It is difficult to think of anyone in modern times who has had so much influence for good. His stance on peace and human rights was greatly admired and inspired many people worldwide. The response to his death, particularly from young people, indicates that people want leadership and a spiritual dimension to their lives.

As a Catholic I certainly hope the role of the laity can be taken more seriously in the church, and that the different perspectives can be harnessed, particularly the role of women. Pope Benedict XVI will have many challenges to face. He is a scholar, a theologian and he has a brilliant mind. The greatest challenge he faces at a time of enormous change in the world is to inspire and to lead Catholics, and through this to have closer relationships with people in other churches. The challenges facing the papacy today are different from those in the past. Deputy Rabbitte referred to the AIDS crisis and there are many other issues. There is perhaps no one else in the world with as much influence for good as the Pope. I wish him well in the challenging times ahead in mobilising his influence to bring greater justice to the world.

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