Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy's suggestion goes a good deal further. We must recognise that the Constitution protects the right of religions to run schools and provide for their religious ethos. Equally, parents have a constitutional right to choose not to have their children participate in religion instruction and their participation should be in a programme of values that does not make the child feel excluded from participation in the school. It is important that schools seek to deliver this right. At the same time, we must recognise that the Constitution protects religions and their right to organise their affairs. A balance must be struck and it is in the area of balance that I seek to operate.

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