Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I welcome this amendment and acknowledge Senator Bacik's eloquent exposition of the difficulties that arise in resolving this matter. However, Fr. Matt Moran of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and the Irish Missionary Union have made significant efforts in this regard. I understand they have met the Minister of State to discuss the matter. It is important that we consider this amendment from a number of angles. The issuance of mass cards is an internal matter for the Catholic Church and we must recognise that the offering of masses for the deceased is an important part of the church's traditions. We should acknowledge this and not take away from it.

As Senator Bacik indicated, there is the issue of people being defrauded or losing revenue. The purpose of the amendment is to bring greater clarity to the issue surrounding bogus mass cards being issued and introduce accountability. I am amused on one level that bishops and priests are being defined in the legislation, which is probably unique in this context. Without getting into trouble, the Minister of State will have plenary indulgences in heaven and masses said for him as a consequence of that.

We had a great debate on humanism this morning and we are now discussing mass cards. It is important we consider the context of the amendment and where we began. It is a reserved function of the Catholic clergy and the church in the issuing of mass cards. We should never take that away. We will support the amendment because the Government has an obligation in the context of this legislation and other legislation regarding fraud, deception and financial matters to protect the church in question and the citizens from being defrauded.

There are many religious charities that are compliant and genuine in their approach, and that have been very forthcoming in their operations. To allow a deception to continue would be wrong. As Fr. Matt Moran said to us, there will now be transparency and accountability, as introduced in this legislation. Whether we agree with mass cards being pre-signed and sold is a different issue but in the context of this legislation, we will support the amendment.