First Minister Rushes Back to Attend Pope's Funeral

First Minister Michelle O'Neill is hoping to attend the Pope's funeral in Rome tomorrow, after cutting short a family holiday in the hopes of being present.

Deputy First Minister Not Attending
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, meanwhile, has confirmed she will not be attending.

Pope's Passing
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican later confirmed his death was as a result of a stroke and advanced heart failure.

Global Attendees
Pilgrims from across the world are making their way to Rome to pay their final respects to the late pontiff. Leaders from around the world are expected to be in attendance for his funeral at 10am, local time, in St Peter’s Square in Rome. US President Donald Trump, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Irish President Michael D Higgins, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Prince William, are all expected to be in attendance alongside leaders and heads of state from nations around the world.