The Archbishop of Cashel & Emly Dr Dermot Clifford has welcomed
the news that Queen Elizabeth II will be including one of County
Tipperary's most famous ecclesiastical sites, the Rock of Cashel, in her
itinerary during her trip to Ireland next month.
The Rock of Cashel is said to be the site where the conversion of the
King of Munster to Christianity was performed by Saint Patrick in the
5th century.
In a statement issued this week, Archbishop Clifford said that Queen
Elizabeth II can be assured of a royal welcome in Cashel of the Kings
and it was wonderful to have lived to see the day when she was made feel
welcome and at home in this country and county.
“Tipperary people are famous for their welcome to visitors, Queen
Elizabeth, queen of our neighbouring island, can be assured of a warm
welcome to the homes of Tipperary.”
Archbishop Clifford added, “I expect that she will not be unaware of
the presence very close by of some of the finest horses in the world at
Coolemore. Cuirimís fáilte fial, flaithiúl roimh banríon Eilis II go
Caiseal Mumhan.”
His welcome was echoed by his Church of Ireland counterpart in the
Archdiocese, Dean Philip Knowles.
Speaking this week he said that the
queen's visit to Ireland was as big a joy as Pope Benedict's visit to
England and Scotland last year.
He went on to say, “I was very moved by the Pope's presence in
Westminster Cathedral and Abbey and I was very impressed with the public
Mass in Scotland. They were worried about him coming there but he got a
very warm welcome. I am hoping in Ireland that Queen Elizabeth II will
get a warm reception too.”
Queen Elizabeth II will visit Ireland next month from May 17 to May 20.