Taoiseach's advisor hits out at invitation refusal

The Taoiseach’s special adviser, Dr Martin Mansergh, has accused the Dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Very Rev. Robert McCarthy, of "inter-denominational one-upmanship" .

Dr Mansergh said the Dean was "going out of his way to find offense" by refusing to attend a reception last night in Dublin Castle in honour of Cardinal Connell because the Taoiseach’s partner, Ms Celia Larkin was co-host.

I don’t think people have the right to judge the integrity of other people’s relationships Dr Martin Mansergh, special adviser to the Taoiseach

Rev McCarthy declined the invitation "on principle", saying that the format was intended to put Ms Larkin "on a quasi-marital basis".

Speaking on RTE radio earlier today, Dr Mansergh said he believed that no one had to the right to judge other people’s relationships, and that in the case of marriage breakdown people had the right to form alternative relationships with other partners.

Ms Celia Larkin co-hosted a State reception in honour of Cardinal Connell last night

"I don’t think people have the right to judge the integrity of other people’s relationships," Dr Mansergh said.

"It is well recognised by everyone that receptions are best hosted by couples.

"I really don’t see why anyone should take exception to what is very common among young people and people who are not so young."

During his address at the reception, Cardinal Connell spoke of the Catholic Church's "profound reverence for the home, designed by the Creator through marriage and family" which some commentators suggest this was a veiled reference to Mr Ahern's relationship with Ms Larkin.

Dr Mansergh defended Dr Connell’s right to his opinion, saying that he was "following the church line."

A Government representative claimed this morning the Taoiseach is "absolutely not offended" by Dr Connell’s remarks.