Lisa McDonald (Fianna Fail)

I rise to ask about progress on the Civil Partnership Bill 2010 which it is expected will come before this House prior to the summer recess. The delay in bringing the Bill before the Oireachtas is not welcome. It must be introduced as soon as possible. Things are happening outside the Houses which are not helpful to the passing of legislation. Last week, the bishops called for a free vote on the Bill. I respect their views and they are entitled to have them. However, this cuts both ways. The bishops want to speak on this issue but remain silent on issues of abuse, where they have to be hauled over the coals to persuade them to express their opinion and reflect on their position on what is happening. They do not seem to have a problem speaking out on issues such as gay partnership, which they clearly do not agree with, but it is another thing when it comes to children's rights and respecting children, when they are silent and their views have to be dragged from them. I criticise what the bishops said last week. On the other hand, I respect them for saying it. They need to be less hypocritical and more forthcoming in general terms if they feel their opinions are required on all temporal matters. We must either have separation of Church and State or not. If not, they should be made to speak on all matters.

Senator Buttimer's point about the State Examinations Commission is valid. We should have a debate on this issue. We also need to examine the issue of Irish not being compulsory at leaving certificate standard. Lately, I have witnessed many young chaps who are struggling with Irish and are under huge pressure coming up to examinations