Joint Statement by Aodhan O'Riordain TD and Senator Ivana Bacik

JOINT STATEMENT BY AODHAN O RIORDAIN TD AND SENATOR IVANA BACIK

Thursday 21st July, 2011

O RIORDAIN AND BACIK CALL FOR END TO SAYING OF PRAYER AT COMMENCEMENT OF OIREACHTAS PROCEEDINGS

Aodhán Ó Riordáin TD and Senator Ivana Bacik have called for an end to the saying of a prayer at the commencement of proceedings in both the Dáil and Seanad.

They have placed this issue on the agenda of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges in both the Dáil and the Seanad. The Seanad CPP will consider the issue at today's meeting (Thursday 21st July).

Bacik and Ó Riordáin have stated that:

“It is not appropriate for a Christian prayer to be used to commence each sitting of the Houses of the Oireachtas in a Republic. The political system must take a lead when striving to create a Republic where all are equal, and all are seen to be equal. The continuing use of the Christian prayer in the formal business of the Oireachtas is disrespectful to those of other religions, and those who do not adhere to any particular religion. The Constitution of Ireland recognises the separation of church and state; and this separation should be reflected in the method of commencing business in the Oireachtas.”

“Although a prayer has traditionally been said at the commencement of proceedings in the House of Commons and House of Lords in England, no prayer is said at the commencement of proceedings in either the National Assembly for Wales, or the Scottish Parliament. A ‘time for reflection' is held in the Scottish Parliament for up to 4 minutes on the commencement of each week's proceedings.”

Senator Bacik is proposing to the Seanad CPP today that the relevant Seanad Standing Order should be amended to provide for a short period of silent contemplation at the commencement of each sitting of the Seanad, to enable all Senators present to reflect or pray silently in accordance with their individual conscience or preference.

ENDS