Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

Tomorrow is St. Valentine's day and people will focus on romance, but it also the tenth anniversary of the introduction of divorce in Ireland. It is interesting to look back on articles written at that time. The late Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa led a strong campaign and claimed divorce would lead to a 10% increase in marriage breakdown. If one considers recent figures, it appears they may have been correct, which is worrying. It is thought the percentage of marriage breakdowns has risen from 2.8% almost to 10%, and it is estimated it could involve 160,000 people.

It is important that we consider the issue of marriage and the supports we can give to the institution of marriage. Perhaps the Leader could arrange a debate for next week. We need to acknowledge that marriage breakdown can be a serious social problem and is in need of urgent attention. It is interesting to consider last week's The Irish Times poll which showed that three quarters of those sampled would support divorce again, and that it has gained support among women voters. It would be opportune to reflect on ten years of divorce to see what we can do to restrengthen marriage and relationships in a way that reflects modern Ireland.