Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yes. I am always saddened when I hear that in more than half the developed countries in the world, Christians cannot practise their faith. That is a frightening statistic.

Pope Francis has an exceptionally difficult task ahead of him. Popes, like all leaders, are obliged to interact with people, including those with whom they do not agree. I am speaking here in the context of countries and administrations. When one considers how Russia and even China are developing at this time - countries we thought would always be isolated and with which we would never communicate - there is some room for optimism. When we interact and use employ diplomacy and dialogue, it is much better than any type of violent reaction. Pope Francis comes across as a very peace-loving person and a very understanding man. It is very easy when one is comfortable in one's own skin to forget how many people are not comfortable in their skin and who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in difficult positions. People in those circumstances are always pleased when they encounter somebody who reaches out and tries to understand.

If Pope Francis accepts an invitation to visit Ireland, an address to the Seanad should form part of it. It is not just Catholics or even other Christians who would have a welcome for him. I heard an interview on the radio this morning with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in which she was asked whether the situation in regard to human rights is better than it was ten years ago. Her response was that the situation is more stressful than ever. The violence taking place in various countries around the world can lead, at times, to a sense of helplessness and hopelessness. We can look to the Heads of State involved to provide leadership but the reality is that they themselves are very often involved in militarism, arms trading and all of it. If one person can stand aside from that and hold out a message of hope, understanding and reconciliation, then that must be welcome.

I do not know when a visit to this country by Pope Francis might happen. Although the future of the Seanad is secure for now, I do not know whether any of us in this Chamber today will still be here when he arrives in Ireland. I certainly would feel exceptionally happy to have Pope Francis speaking directly to us as legislators. Even if the most difficult questions were put to him, I feel sure he would do his best to be open and transparent and, at the same time, understanding towards people. My hope is that the train of thought that has begun here today through the good work and initiative of Senator Norris will develop and evolve. I conclude by reminding colleagues of the fable of the acorn and the great oak, which speaks of the importance of believing the impossible is sometimes possible. If we do not adopt that philosophy, we remain stagnant. Senator Norris and the colleagues who are supporting this motion believe it is possible to advance this invitation. I certainly hope their initiative is successful.