Pope Francis to visit European Parliament this morning

Pope Francis will address the European
Parliament this morning in Strasbourg. The Pontiff is due to arrive at the
Parliament at 9.30 Irish time [10.30 CET]. After an official welcome ceremony
His Holiness will deliver a formal speech in the Parliament. EuroParlRadio’s
Karen Coleman now reports from the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

Out words: in Strasbourg

Duration: 00:49

Carthy defends McDonald Dail behaviour

The Sinn Fein MEP Matt Carthy has defended Mary Lou McDonald’s behavior in the Dail yesterday. Opponents have accused the Sinn Fein deputy leader of pulling a “disgraceful political stunt” after she refused to leave the Dail following her suspension by the Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett. Ms McDonald had been ruled out of order for questioning the Tanaiste Joan Burton on water charges. Amid chaotic scenes the Ceann Comhairle suspended the Dail’s business until next Tuesday as Ms McDonald refused to leave the chamber. However the Sinn MEP Matt Carthy who represents the Midlands North West constituency says Ms McDonald was just doing her job in demanding answers from the Tanaiste.

Sinn Fein handling sexual abuse allegations in ‘appropriate way’ – Carthy

A Sinn Fein MEP is defending Gerry Adams’s handling of the controversy surrounding the alleged sexual and physical abuse of victims by members of the republican movement. Mr Carthy’s comments follow a number of recent heated exchanges in the Dail on the alleged abuse. Gerry Adams has denied any cover up and he’s apologised for mistakes republicans made in dealing with the abuse claims. Matt Carthy, who represents the Midlands North West Constituency says he accepts what Gerry Adams has said and believes Sinn Fein are handling it appropriately.