Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am a bit torn on this one. It is certainly not because I have any love for religious institutions. I see where the Minister has come from and it is a massive step forward but, having listened to the debate, I agree with Deputies Boyd Barrett, Shortall and Catherine Martin on the complete separation of church and State. I understand what the Minister is trying to achieve in terms of minority religions and it is a big step forward. At the end of the day, though, if we are to have equality of access in education, it has to be all or nothing. It is either equal or it is not. I agree with many of the sentiments expressed in respect of changing times. I want to put on record that I will be supporting Deputies Martin’s and Boyd Barrett’s amendments on this one.

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