It has not been confirmed by Rome, and it remains speculation but the Parish Priest of Knock remains hopeful that Pope Francis will visit Knock Shrine this August.

Despite a front page story in today’s Irish Independent that Pope Francis hopes to begin his historic visit to Ireland this August in Knock, flying in from Rome to Ireland West Airport Knock, Fr Gibbons told Midwest Radio today that there is no new news from Rome. While he remains hopeful that it will happen, he said he had no concrete evidence to say that it will.

According to the paper there has been much speculation about the type of welcome the Pope will receive - but sources say gardaí have concerns that as many as 650,000 people will want to see him in the Phoenix Park on August 26.By holding another event at Knock a day earlier they hope to offer an alternative viewing opportunity for people.

The Vatican tends to remain tight-lipped about the Pope's itinerary until shortly before he travels to a country.

Fr Gibbons said while he is hopeful that the Pope will visit the Shrine, a visit has not been confirmed.