Fears over 1979 papal visit revealed
Security worries surrounding the Pope’s visit to Ireland in 1979 have been revealed in Government documents released today under the 30-year rule.
Secret Irish and British records show the high level of concern at the prospect of a Papal trip north of the border, as well as worries about a proposed amnesty for prisoners to mark the visit.
State documents from 1979 have been released in Dublin, London and Belfast today under the 30-year rule.
They cast new light on one of the highlights of the year – the visit of Pope John Paul II at the end of September.
In particular, the papers show the worry in official circles in London at the prospect of the visit being extended to Northern Ireland.
Officials warned they could not guarantee the safety of the Pope in Northern Ireland – and that a visit could lead to inter-communal violence which could destroy hopes for peace and political progress.
In the event, the Pope decided not to cross the border.
The files also reveal details of an amnesty for 76 prisoners who were released to mark the Papal visit.
Jack Lynch‘s government agreed with official advice that the prisoners should not be let out until the Pope had left the country – otherwise there would be a threat of robbery to all the homes left empty by people attending the Papal masses.
