The recommendation to lift the restriction on ordaining married men limits it to those who are already permanent deacons and to the Church in the Amazon.

‘I encourage the faithful to pray for the success of this synod, the purpose of which is to serve the good of humanity,’ said Bishop Alan McGuckian, Chair of the Irish Bishops’ Council for Justice and Peace.

“While affirming that celibacy is a gift for the Church, it is asked that for the most remote areas of the region, the possibility of priestly ordination of elders ... even those who already have stable and consolidated families, be studied in order to ensure the sacraments to accompany and sustain Christian life.”

The survey of 875 adults took place at 64 locations across the country, between 23rd July and 6th August.

The question of celibacy is already being discussed at the highest levels in the Vatican – Noel McCann, ACI.

Support for Bishop O’Reilly's suggestion that the bishops set up a commission to study the possibility of ordaining married men & appointing female deacons.

Introduction of overseas missionaries aims to offset the decline and ageing profile of Kilmore's priests.

ACP's Fr Brendan Hoban warns, it is “now mathematically certain that Irish priests are an endangered species."

Results of feedback from 18-month listening survey in diocese's parishes highlights a range of concerns among young and old.

Irish peer urges Church to ordain women as deacons.

Dominican warns priests' association that they are contributing to the vocations crisis.