Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Taoiseach must have said some other prayers before the general election. Will he arrange to meet representatives of the Sikh community to discuss the wearing of turbans in the Garda Síochána? As it is a matter of some considerable interest, does the Taoiseach intend to meet the people in question?

It is perfectly obvious that the churches in Ireland have responsible attitudes towards their own communities and the country in which they live. As the Taoiseach is aware, some Muslim clerics in Britain have attempted to whip up a certain amount of fervour about issues which they deem to be important. Has the Taoiseach discussed the questions of tolerance and peace in the future with representatives of the various communities in Ireland, including representatives of the Islamic faith here? The Taoiseach said in the Dáil two years ago that representatives of al-Qaeda cells were operating in Ireland. Did he raise that matter with the representatives of the various groups when he met them?

When the Taoiseach met representatives of the Catholic church, which owns many schools in this country, did he discuss the future of our education system with them? Organisations like Educate Together have called for a stronger focus on multidenominational education. Did the Taoiseach discuss the matter with the representatives of the Catholic church? Does he have a view on where our education system is heading? Did this issue arise at the meetings in question? I welcome the elevation of Cardinal Seán Brady to the hierarchy of the Catholic church. It is a great honour for him, his family and the country as a whole.

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