Ireland closes embassy to Vatican (Rome Reports and Vatican Radio)

 

The Irish government has announced that it will close their embassy to the Vatican in order to save more money. They maintain diplomatic relations with the Holy See, however the announcement was made after a year of rocky relations between the Vatican and Ireland. The Vatican has recognized Ireland's decision, noting that the important thing was actually having relations, which in this case was not in question.

The announcement was made along with plans to close two other Irish embassies in the countries of Iran and East Timor. The Irish have said these closures would save their government 1.7 million dollars every year.

Dublin did make it a point to note that the decision was not based on disputes over child abuse committed by members of the Church.

• Comments of the Press Office of the Holy See (including link to report from Vatican Radio)
• Comments by Cardinal Sean Brady