The Church of Ireland Primate, Dr Robin Eames, said yesterday that, regarding marriage, people in high public office should be aware of the role they were setting.
Dr Eames, commenting on the State reception for Cardinal Connell, said he would have preferred if there was a reaching out to "sensitivities" and invitations were sent by the Government and the Taoiseach.
The Church of Ireland had always emphasised the sanctity of marriage, Dr Eames said. "I represent a church where the lifelong nature of marriage is vital and important.
"Therefore, while I would not condemn an individual, I would be constantly saying that people in high public office must be very, very well aware of the role that they are setting," Dr Eames added.