According to the Iona Institute's analysis of Census 2016, 6 per cent of professional workers were separated or divorced compared with 18 per cent of unskilled workers.

At the annual Chrism Mass, Dr Nulty said he was “acutely aware of the ... strains that exist ... where the age profile of the priesthood continues to rise, and where sometimes even to organise relief cover is next to impossible”.

There were 132,200 fewer Catholics in Ireland over the past five years, down to 3,729,100 from 3,861,300 in 2011.

Peter McVerry Trust calls for compulsory purchase of vacant buildings in private ownership.