Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

I will not withdraw what I said. The Minister and the Government should have been more aware of the situation in respect of the church before the final choice of the three to cut as well as the various comments made by those in the Minister's party when in opposition on issues addressed in many other areas and on investigations. They should have kept away from this because they should have known it would be seen as having a bias against the Catholic Church. The Minister and the Minister for Education and Skills should try to tell the public what they have told me. I do not accept what the Minister says. I am convinced, as are others, that there is a bias against the Vatican and the Catholic Church.

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