Martin in tears as he recalls telling Pope of Tuam babies
THE Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin broke down during an interview yesterday, as he recalled telling Pope Francis about the Tuam babies scandal.
In a wide-ranging interview on Sunday With Miriam on RTÉ Radio 1, the Archbishop said that he thought there was no way the Pope can avoid addressing victims of clerical sex abuse when he visits Ireland later this year.
‘I remember the day the story of the Tuam babies came out and he [the Pope] said to me, “how are things in Ireland?” I said, “There’s a terrible…’” At this point, Dr Martin was heard to get upset.
‘I said to him “there’s a terrible story emerging of children’s bodies being found...” He was visibly upset. He has that sensitivity... and I hope the people around him will allow him say what he wants to.’ He also addressed Mary McAleese’s comments on the ‘virus of misogyny’ in the Catholic Church. He said ‘all of us have to examine our consciences’.
FOR many years now, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin has been the most personable presence of the Catholic hierarchy in this country.
Few listeners who heard him breaking down in tears on RTÉ Radio 1 yesterday can fail to have been moved. He became emotional as he told presenter Miriam O’Callaghan about discussing the Tuam babies scandal with Pope Francis.
It is greatly to Archbishop Martin’s credit that he is unafraid of showing his human side to the nation. Meanwhile, the Pontiff himself – due to visit here later this year – has also been praised for his open and generous nature. Between them, they are the best ambassadors the Church could hope for in terms of regaining support and confidence among the Irish flock.