"The story of this devout Irish priest from Killarney, and skilled Vatican diplomat, is incredible to behold.”

The archives relating to Pius XII’s papacy have been long awaited by researchers seeking a better understanding of Vatican policy during World War II, particularly its response to the Holocaust.

Kerry footballer launches new novel based on the true story of the Irish priest who is considered to be one of the most significant figures in Catholic resistance to Nazism.

Fr Shay Cullen describes Hugh O’Flaherty International Humanitarian Award as “a statement that all life is precious ... and each has invaluable dignity and every one is worth saving”.

The co-founder of the PREDA Foundation will receive the award in recognition of his work with abused children in the Philippines.

The 2016 recipient will be announced in late August and the award will be presented on 5 November during the 9th Hugh O’Flaherty Memorial Week.

This year marks 50th anniversary of the death of the priest who saved thousands in WWII.