“The Catholic Church has no other weapons but prayer and brotherhood among all peoples.”

President Higgins, civic and political representatives, members of the diplomatic corps joined religious leaders to remember the victims of the Brussels attacks.

At least 7,000 people took to the streets of Brussels on Sunday in a march “against terror and hate”.

The bill is one of the smallest bills the Irish Government has had to pay for its embassy service.

"At this profoundly painful time I pray for those who have died, and ask also for prayerful support for their grieving families, fellow students and loved ones.”

“Ireland has always been one of the strongest supporters of the United Nations and some 90 Irish soldiers have lost their lives in the quest for worldwide peace.”

Ireland should consider re-appointing a resident ambassador to the Vatican Deputy Michael McNamara suggests.