Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail)

By referring to religion as a fantasy. This is very unfortunate. One hears this view expressed by some of the organisations involved in this area from time to time. It is very important that we have respect for faith and individual faiths. I support the principle of non-denominational Christian prayer at the commencement of proceedings and support the change to introduce the period of reflection.

Prayer is common at the commencement of proceedings in various parliaments and assemblies around the world, be they in the United Kingdom, Australia or the United States. Politicians must tread warily in the area of faith and religion. I will never forget the words of Antonio in the Merchant of Venice, who tells Bassanio the devil can cite scripture for his own purposes. Those with religious beliefs must not use those beliefs for their personal political purposes. This is a very important principle that I try to uphold as best I can, although I acknowledge one's faith can inform one in one's approach to issues. It should do so because the values of religious faith are very relevant to the values of today. I refer to the fundamental Christian message of helping the poor.

I support the change being introduced today. We should change to reflect all faiths. Perhaps we could make a further change, such as that implemented in the US House of Representatives. Perhaps we could invite people from various religious faiths and the Humanist Association of Ireland to come to the House at the commencement of proceedings to deliver the prayer or allow for 30 seconds of reflection, perhaps to coincide with particular feast-days of particular religions, be they Catholic, Protestant, Muslim or Jewish. I also include people of the Bahá'í faith. They are very good people and there are a number of them in the country. I also include humanists and others. After allowing members of these groups to say the prayer, for however long it takes, we could then proceed with our business. I do not see how this would interfere with us too much.

We support the change. Let us move on to more important issues. I bet the media will be highlighting this issue and stating the Seanad is doing nothing else but raising it. I assure the people that every Member has been raising very important issues in the Seanad today.