David Norris (Independent)

I accept that. However, the Standing Orders of the Seanad do not apply to the broadcast of the Angelus. As a member of the Church of Ireland, I have consistently defended its broadcast. It would be unfortunate if the impression were to go out that the Church of Ireland objects to it. As I understand it, the church does not have an official position on the matter. As a weekly churchgoer, I would personally miss it. If people do not like it, they can choose to do something useful while they are waiting for the news to start such as putting on the kettle. I do not find it at all offensive. I have reservations regarding the daily recitation of a prayer at the commencement of parliamentary business, but those reservations arise not from a position of antagonism to religion but rather because I take religion very seriously.