Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I concur with Senator Hanafin and others regarding the racist attacks in Belfast, which yet again demonstrate that we have a long way to go before full respect for the dignity of the person is enjoyed by all members of society. They underline the need to promote values of tolerance at all levels, but mere tolerance will not suffice. We need to emphasise the ethical absolute of the right of each person to participate equally in the goods of our society. That is more a matter of respect for the person than a mere assertion of rights or values of tolerance. Our schools should play a key part in emphasising these rights.

I would welcome a debate on the ownership and management of our schools. The key value in this regard must be parental choice. According to a recent poll of parents' preferences conducted by Red C Research, 47% want their children to attend Catholic schools, 37% want schools where all religions are taught and 11% want schools in which no religion is taught. All those groups must enjoy access to schooling under the model they prefer. I would regret any attempt to use the current controversy, which must be taken seriously, as a wedge to pursue a separate agenda for the control and ownership of schools. I have criticised the Labour Party and others in this regard.