Sean Barrett (Independent)

What we are debating reflects the evolution of Irish society. We have moved away from dreadful events such as the penal laws and insulting 12 July marches and so on. We have emerged from that sectarianism and we are tolerant in our religious beliefs. On reflection, people engaged in prayer are not a threat to anybody else. The prayer encompasses some very beautiful language. As a new member I welcome it when we come here and pray every day and it is not incompatible with the period of silence recommended by Senator Bacik. That is part of a life, leaving aside dreadful events, the abuse of children and abusive and sectarian marches on 12 July, but we must reflect on many of the worthwhile things that happen. I come from a college where a Latin grace is said twice daily, where the college chapel is at the centre of much of what we do and provides much of our inspiration, where we pray on Trinity Monday that we will neglect no part of our manifold inheritance.