Over the decade from 2007 to 2017, government restrictions on religion – laws, policies and actions by state officials that restrict religious beliefs and practices – increased markedly around the world, says report.

“We are all of God’s same race. Hatred and intolerance that in any way undermine that fundamental unity of human kind are an attack on the God who created us as a single human family.”

“The demand for Catholic schools is strong. The demand for other forms of patronage is growing. The process of diversification is still too slow.”

Archbishop suggests it is too simplistic to infer that an authentic Christian culture of marriage has disappeared on the basis of the referendum.

Some accuse the Church of not doing enough to stop the amendment; others criticise Church for stridently presenting a message that was out of touch with the people.

"Getting it wrong will almost inevitably further destabilise the family and society; it will pose major problems for legislation," - Bishop MacDaid.