Comments from the Vatican on the gay community are being hailed as a critical first step by a human rights official.

Following a round of bishops' discussions on various issues - including the family - a report states gay people have 'gifts and qualities' to offer Catholicism.

It is a departure from the Vatican sentiment on the area before the election of Pope Francis.

The document says: "Homosexuals have gifts and qualities to offer the Christian community: are we capable of welcoming these people, guaranteeing to them a further space in our communities? Often they wish to encounter a Church that offers them a welcoming home."

It also says the church should find "a fraternal space" for gay people, without compromising Catholic doctrine on family and matrimony.

Pope Francis has previously shown an openness to the church turning away from the traditional view of homosexuality, saying last year: "If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge."

Emily Logan is the chief commissioner designate of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission.

She told the Pat Kenny Show here on Newstalk that the remarks are encouraging.