Northern Ireland Ministers congratulate Pope Leo XIV on his election

The First Minister and deputy First Minister have congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as the new head of the Catholic Church.

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, becomes the 267th Pope and the first American Pontiff.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "The election of Pope Leo XIV will be celebrated around the world.

“I want to extend my best wishes to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. I hope his papacy will continue the good work done by Pope Francis, who was a champion for the poor, the vulnerable and the persecuted.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “The election of Pope Leo XIV is a significant and historic moment for the Catholic Church. I wish the church community and leadership well as this new chapter begins.”