Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is a great privilege to welcome to the Gallery members of the Muslim Sisters of Éire, an incredible group of women who will be known to anyone who has spent time in our capital city. They are some of the most selfless and servant-hearted women you could ever meet. They spend hours upon hours every week on the cold streets of Dublin, helping to feed those who are homeless. Every Friday night, they are on O'Connell Street in front of the GPO, providing hot meals, fresh fruit and water. It is no exaggeration to say that these women have saved the lives of countless Irish men and women. As the Koran says, if anyone saves a life, it shall be as though they have saved the lives of all mankind.The sisters join a long tradition of essential aid being provided by those who are compelled to act by their faith. Br. Kevin Crowley founded the Capuchin Day Centre over half a century ago. It has been a lifeline for tens of thousands of Irish people. He headed it up until last year. Some people like to talk about the separation of church and State. It seems the separation is as follows: where the State fails, people of faith will step in. I am blown away by the work of these women. There are over 100 volunteers. They should rightly receive our thanks and praise, but they should not have to do what they do. This Government should not need to rely on the charity of its citizens to minimise the harms that result from its governance. I ask that we have the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage come to the House to debate the housing situation in 2023 before the year comes to a close. Let us see how much longer these women will have to look after the people on the streets.