Hot Press Hit the Streets to Find Out What People Think About the Pope’s Visit

Hot Press Magazine asked a series of questions to strangers out and about in Dublin city regarding the Pope's upcoming Dublin visit.

We asked: How do you feel about the Pope visiting Ireland? How do you feel about the money spent by the government to facilitate the Pope’s visit? Do you think the Pope should meet the victims of child abuse?

Among those questioned were Irish actor and comedian Pat Shortt and Luka Bloom, an Irish folk singer-songwriter and the younger brother of folk singer Christy Moore.

The main point of contention proved to be the amount of money spent on the visit, which has reportedly reached €32 million. One passer-by said: “There’s plenty of things they can spend it on, like homelessness. They’re spending it on the Pope, which is ridiculous.”

Luka Bloom agreed: “I would much prefer this money was spent on the really significant issues in this amazing and amazingly tragic country. I’d love to see the money going towards building houses.”

The interviewees were split on the subject of whether or not the Pope should meet the victims of clerical abuse. “I don’t think he should meet them. Meeting them doesn’t make a difference.” Another replied, “100%. Definitely yes.” However, when asked if he thought that the Pope will meet them, the man admitted, “Probably not. They just push it under the rug.”

Check out the video below to see what the public really think about Pope Francis’ visit.