Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----especially in light of the fact that it is nearly 40 years since the shrine saw the historic visit of Pope John Paul II. In recent times the Pope has venerated Fr. Patrick Peyton, who was from Mayo, from near the town of Attymass from where I come. It would be opportune for the Pope to visit there and that would be a very popular move not only with the people of Mayo but with his many followers throughout the country.With that in mind, I am sure that Members on all sides of the House will join me in asking that the authorities and influencers, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in particular, would make every effort to facilitate a visit to Knock. A good deal of work is going on behind the scenes. I am aware there are serious protocols in place and that it is not an official State visit. The Pope is a Head of State and a world leader, and I would like to see the visit happen. It would mean a great deal to many people and it would round off what will be a very welcome visit.