Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I also welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter and the proposed motion to amend Standing Order 27. We as a party have faith in what the committee decides as the committee is representative of all the parties and none. We all have someone on the committee to voice opinions on our behalf. I compliment the committee on the work it has done to date.

Traditionally we have always had prayers. I might only be here 12 months myself, but there have always been prayers in this House. Retention of the prayer with the added reflection respects the tradition of the prayer while accommodating all views in the quiet reflection time. As the Minister of State said, we are now an inclusive society. By retaining the prayer with the reflection time, it encompasses a modern Ireland while still respecting the traditions of the past. We are fully supportive of the committee in this regard.

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