Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Where there is honest and open debate, it is often the case that illumination is provided by all those participating. Such has occurred in this debate. I welcome the announcement by the Leader that he intends to introduce a motion in September to broaden this discussion so that we might also take on board the State's culpability. I also welcome the fact that both sides of the House have involved the State in the debate and generously acknowledged the church's contribution. I compliment the Minister, Deputy Fitzgerald. I was not expecting the tone of her contribution. It was a good start in itself. When referring to the Taoiseach's statement, she stated:

But it was more than a condemnation, that statement. It was a call on the church to respond with compassion, to demonstrate openness, and to exemplify the practices called for by Pope Benedict.

I welcome her remarks. I also welcome her acknowledgement of the State's inadequacies and her promise to act urgently in that regard.

The histories of Ireland and the church contain many dark episodes, yet the one our debate addresses is one of the darkest of all time. Not only have the perpetrators of such heinous crimes betrayed trust and faith, they have betrayed the very founder they profess to follow. The founder of the Christian faith clearly warned those who would corrupt or scandalise children. It is a basic tenet of our religion. We each have personal experiences of that religion through our education, the alleviation of poverty, health care and many other forms of help. This will not be forgotten.

I wish to read from a missive I received from a scribe with whom every Member is familiar, namely, Councillor Mannix Flynn.