Kate Walsh (Progressive Democrats)

On the day Pope John Paul II visited Maynooth in 1979, my husband was on duty and we had the privilege of meeting him. When he saw my husband in uniform, he told him he was a guardian of the peace. I will always remember those words. The Pope realised and appreciated the role of the Garda in protecting us, our society and our values. His words show how much he thought of Ireland and Irish values. It is fitting that we honour his achievements in life on a global scale and his influence on individuals and their personal lives.

The Roman Catholic Church and the entire world has lost a great friend and leader. The Pope's dedication to championing the ideas of human values, human dignity and the needs of the world's poorest must not be forgotten. All politicians and leaders must consider these ideals when they make decisions that shape society. Pope John Paul II prayed for us and our leaders and urged them to take the practical steps to help those suffering. Not everyone agreed with the late Pope but Catholics and non-Catholics have expressed a genuine sense of loss in his passing, a testament to his greatness. Slán go fóill.