Premier Christy Clark released the following statement on the accession of Francis I:

"In accordance with their centuries-old tradition, the College of Cardinals today elected a new Pope.

"For almost 700,000 Catholics in British Columbia, Pope Francis is their spiritual leader, and successor to a direct line going all the way back to Saint Peter. And for those who adhere to a different faith, the Pope is a world leader of truly global influence.

"The Holy Father's choice of the name Francis is wonderful. Saint Francis of Assisi worked tirelessly to broaden the Church's horizons beyond Europe - a fitting choice for the first Pope from the Americas.

"On behalf of all British Columbians, I want to extend my most sincere congratulations to the Holy Father on his accession and to Catholics on this most joyous occasion."

Contact:

Mike Morton
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 588-8380