Susan O'Keeffe (Labour)

Senator Walsh is right to advise caution but this is why rules and procedures have been put in place. The idea that organisations would apply because an individual desired to conduct marriage ceremonies is fanciful. Organisations will have to demonstrate their seriousness of intent by seeking to be included. By putting a framework in place we will be taking the issue seriously. We do not want to legislate for one group after another. In a country that is increasingly aware of the separation between church and State, this our moment to make space for other organisations, like the Humanist Association of Ireland and, perhaps, Atheist Ireland, to come forward.

In regard to the idea that a Minister may be more vulnerable to lobbying on this issue than on other areas of policy, we have always taken a risk in regard to whom we appoint as Ministers. Some have performed better than others but we cannot give up on legislation because we fear a Minister might behave in a manner that is not quite kosher. If we did that, we would never legislate for anything.