WATCH: Tipperary singer's tribute to Pope Francis

Tributes have been pouring in for Pope Francis from around the world this Easter Monday after an official announcment from the Vatican this morning that the pontiff has passed away.

He had been ill for several weeks, but appeared in public yesterday to give an Easter Sunday blessing in St Peter’s Square.

Pope Francis replaced Pope Benedict XVI in 2013 after the latter's resignation. Pope Francis has been a popular figure with Catholics worldwide and has at times been seen as a progessive figure at the head of the Church.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin released a statement earlier today saying:

'Pope Francis’ long and distinguished papacy was marked by his unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, peace, and human dignity," Taoiseach Micheál Martin said while offering his condolences.

He spoke out for the poor, the marginalised, and the oppressed. His solidarity with refugees, his calls for climate action, and his insistence on global peace and equality set him apart as a champion of justice in the modern world.

Pope Francis holds a special place in the hearts of the Irish people. During his visit to Ireland in August 2018 for the World Meeting of Families, he was welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm that spoke volumes about the respect and affection in which he was held by Irish people.'

He visited Ireland back in August 2018.

Tipperary singer Liam Gleeson composed a song just for the visit called 'Fáilte Papa Francis':

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