The Catholic Church's first female cardinal may be Irish.

There's international speculation that 49-year-old Linda Hogan, the vice-Provost of Trinity College – who is from Callan in Co Kilkenny – may be appointed.

Another name being suggested is former President Mary McAleese.

Theologian Gina Menzies says Linda Hogan is a respected academic who would be a challenging appointment to the College of Cardinals.

"She's written widely in relation to moral theology, particular in relation to ethics … peace studies .. homosexuality - so she's a very radical but nevertheless an extremely deep, deep thinker," she said.