As the papal flight approaches Dublin Pope John Paul II shares his thoughts on Ireland.
On his flight to Ireland, Pope John Paul II enjoyed a fried breakfast of sausages, bacon, black and white pudding and brown bread followed by three cups of coffee. Members of the media flew on the Saint Patrick the 747 bringing Pope John Paul II to Ireland. RTÉ reporter Colm Connolly approached the pope to ask what he was most looking forward to in Ireland. Pope John Paul II turned interviewer putting the question to Colm Connolly.
Let us ask the journalist why they are so interested in this journey?
Pope John Paul II is the first pope to visit Ireland. He says he has come to Ireland as a result of the great tradition of religious belief of the Irish people.
I pray every day for these people and for this country. It's so near to my heart, Irish people. From my childhood, it is so.
As the plane flew in over Dublin, the Pope could see the vast congregation waiting for him to celebrate mass in the Phoenix Park.
The size of the gathering clearly impressed the Papal party.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 29 September 1979. The reporter is Colm Connolly.
