The Archdiocese of Glasgow has confirmed that the Archbishop ‘died suddenly’ at his home in Glasgow after he had tested positive for COVID 19 shortly after Christmas and was self-isolating at home.
The Archbishop served as leader of Scotland’s largest Catholic community since 2012 and was Scotland’s most senior Roman Catholic cleric.
The cause of his death is not yet clear.
Speaking at Parliament today, the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon paid her respects.
She said: “I want to put on record my deep sadness at this news. I’m sure that is sadness that will be shared by everybody across this chamber and send my deepest condolences to his loved ones and of course everybody in his community.”
The First Minister later tweeted: “Archbishop Tartaglia was a fine man who was much loved within the Catholic community and beyond.
"I always valued my interactions with him and he will be greatly missed.
"My thoughts are with his loved ones and wider community. May he rest in peace.”
Education Secretary John Swinney tweeted: "I always valued my discussions with Archbishop Tartaglia.
"A graceful leader of his people. May he Rest in Peace.”
Monica Lennon, Labour health and social care spokesperson said she was “very sorry to hear” about his passing, adding “may he rest in peace.”
The Archdiocese has asked the public to “pray for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Philip, for his family and friends and people of the Archdiocese.”