David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

First, I congratulate our colleague, Senator Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, on the announcement that will be made in the Dáil this evening about Traveller ethnicity. He has fought honourably for this for many years. I heard him on the wireless this morning and I was very moved by his tribute to his Traveller grandmother. It was a very fine statement and I think that we all appreciate it.

This is Ash Wednesday and I note the Cathaoirleach himself is wearing the marks of the ash. I do not agree with the proposal to open public houses on Good Friday. It is an extraordinary thing to say. Good Friday is the most solemn day in the Christian calendar. It is the most serious day, the day on which Christ was crucified. We have 1,500 years of Christian observance in this country, it is a wonderful tradition. We may be somewhat post-Catholic at the moment but I do not think that is any reason to jettison our religious, ethical and cultural standards and values. In Muslim countries, people from outside and people who are Christians have to observe the cultural traditions of those countries and if not they are severely punished. Working people deserve a day of rest. If we introduce this people will be forced against their will to work in pubs, hotels and so on and I think that is completely wrong. Were such an instrument to be introduced in this House, I for one would vigorously oppose it.