(CPOD) Oct. 17, 2003 - Many Canadians remain at ease with the head of the Catholic Church, according to a poll by Ipsos-Reid released by CTV and the Globe and Mail. 71 per cent of respondents approve of the way Pope John Paul II has handled his duties.

The Polish-born Karol Wojtyla became the first non-Italian in more than four centuries to ascend the papacy 25 years ago. His fragile state --affected by Parkinson's Disease-- has led to questions over a possible succession, although Vatican rules establish that a pontiff must serve until his death.

The Pope's pronouncements on issues such as abortion, birth control and evangelism have been criticized by many, who long for a less conservative Catholic Church. Respondents are equally split on the way John Paul II has dealt with controversial matters.

Polling Data

Do you approve or disapprove of Pope John Paul II role as leader of the Catholic Church?

Do you agree with the Pope's pronouncements on issues such as abortion, birth control and evangelism?

Source: Ipsos-Reid / CTV / Globe and Mail
Methodology: Interviews to 1,055 Canadian adults, conducted from Oct. 7 to Oct. 10, 2003. Margin of error is 3.1 per cent.

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