Ireland's political leaders extended their congratulations after Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, May 8.
Pope Leo XIV was elected on Thursday, a day after the Conclave, which included 133 Cardinal electors, officially began following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
To elect a new Pope, a two-thirds majority is required, meaning that for this Conclave, at least 89 votes are needed out of 133 electors. Cardinal Prevost was selected on the fourth ballot.
A native of Chicago, the 69-year-old is the first ever Pontiff to come from the United States.
In his first appearance and address as Pope, he offered a blessing from the Central Loggia of St. Peter's Basilica to not only the massive audience, but the global Catholic Church, which counts some 1.4 billion members.
He went on to say: "We have to look together how to be a missionary Church, building bridges, dialogue, always open to receiving with open arms for everyone, like this square, open to all, to all who need our charity, our presence, dialogue, love."
"The best wishes of all Irish people"
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Ireland, I offer warm congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV," Taoiseach Micheal Martin said on Thursday evening.
“The scenes of great joy and celebrations in St. Peter’s Square are a reflection of the hopes and goodwill felt by people of the Catholic faith from all around the world towards the new Pope.
“I hope that this groundswell of best wishes towards Pope Leo XIV will give him strength and support as he takes on the immense responsibility of his pontificate.
"I know that he has the best wishes of all Irish people, of all traditions.
“I also send my congratulations to the people of the United States, a country with which Ireland enjoys such a deep and strong relationship. To have a Pope from their country is a source of great pride and an honour for their nation.
“I wish Pope Leo XIV every strength, good health, and the required spiritual guidance as he begins his mission of leading the Catholic Church at a time of challenge, building on the pastoral direction and achievements of Pope Francis.
“I look forward to working with Pope Leo XIV as an important and influential partner in addressing the many and interlinked challenges facing our world, as we work for peace, justice and sustainable development for all.”
On behalf of the Government and the people of Ireland, I offer warm congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV. pic.twitter.com/CjgS7hND6R
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) May 8, 2025
“We hope to work together"
In a separate but similar statement, Ireland's Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris also 'warmly congratulated' Cardinal Prevost on his election as the 267th Pope and next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
“This is a momentous occasion for Pope Leo XIV personally, and for the millions of Catholics across the world who now look to him for guidance, leadership, and inspiration," Harris said on Thursday evening, adding that he send the new Pope his "very best wishes."
Harris continued: “The election of a new Pope is always a significant moment, not only for the Catholic Church but for the broader global community.
"As Tánaiste and on behalf of the Government of Ireland, I extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish him every success for his Pontificate.
“I have no doubt he will continue to build on the extraordinary legacy left behind by his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, who taught us all the importance of kindness and humanity.”
The Tánaiste added: “Ireland shares a long and enduring relationship with the Holy See, rooted in deep historical, cultural, and spiritual ties.
“We in Ireland value this connection, and we look forward to continuing and strengthening our close engagement with the Holy See under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership.
“In a time marked by complex global challenges—from poverty and conflict to climate change—the role of moral and spiritual leadership is more vital than ever.
“We hope to work together with His Holiness in the pursuit of peace, justice, and solidarity amongst people.”
I warmly congratulate Cardinal Prevost on his election as the 267th Pope and next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
This is a momentous occasion for Pope Leo XIV personally, and for the millions of Catholics across the world who now look to him for guidance and leadership. pic.twitter.com/yos2XRHF5U
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 8, 2025
In Northern Ireland, First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "This is a day of profound significance for Catholics in Ireland and worldwide, as Pope Leo XIV assumes his role of spiritual leader.
"I hope he will use his influence to stand up for the marginalised and oppressed, champion peace, and lead with courage and compassion - just as his predecessor, Pope Francis, did," O'Neill said in a post on social media.
Unlike the Taoiseach and Tánaiste, O'Neill directly mentioned Palestine in her message, saying: "As the genocide in Gaza continues and a devastating famine looms, I encourage the Pope to stand unwaveringly for the rights of the Palestinian people to life, dignity, and freedom, and to urgently use his influence to help bring an end to this barbaric genocide."
This is a day of profound significance for Catholics in Ireland and worldwide, as Pope Leo XIV assumes his role of spiritual leader.
I hope he will use his influence to stand up for the marginalised and oppressed, champion peace, and lead with courage and compassion - just as… pic.twitter.com/zfPZw4Ludw
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) May 8, 2025
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