Joe O'Toole (Independent)

The Catholic hierarchy should recognise that, despite what they had said, the Bill was passed without a vote. This shows they are more in tune with the homophobic so-called Christians outside the gates than with the public representatives of the people. That should be a concern for everyone. It would be worthwhile to move them away from the gates, sit them down and read to them the Sermon on the Mount or God's two great commandments, the second of which is to love thy neighbour. A lot of work remains to be done and we should outline our position clearly. While it is acceptable for people to protest, make their views known and put pressure on us, their behaviour is not acceptable. That is what politics is about. I do not mind when it happens to us, but it is simply not on when it happens to visitors and family members.