John Bruton
Ceist:7 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the discussions, if any, he has had with church leaders on policy issues. [8018/98]
Ceisteanna—Questions. - Discussions with Church Leaders.
Since becoming Taoiseach I have had a number of formal and informal meetings with leading figures from some of the main churches. I value the opportunity for such exchanges, given the important role which the churches play in all aspects of Irish society. The matters discussed typically have a bearing on a wide range of policy issues, especially those of a social, economic and political kind.
I have previously reported to the House on meetings I have had with the Archbishop of Armagh, Dr. Eames, and the Bishop of Derry, Dr. Hegarty.
Has the issue concerning the way in which the centrality of the Christian significance of the millennium is to be commemorated been resolved between the Government and the churches, in view of the fact that the millennium is the 2,000th anniversary of the birth of Christ?
It has not, but I have noted the issue raised by Deputy Bruton and have raised it at a recent meeting. I will report to the House on this matter as soon as an understanding has been reached regarding what can be done to celebrate the millennium in the context of the Christian churches.
Does the Taoiseach agree that the timeframe is not long? There are a large number of Christian churches and there are people who are not of the Christian tradition. It is important that the commemoration of an event with a specifically Christian origin should have a Christian element, something which is acceptable from every perspective. What arrangements does the Government intend making or will the issue be allowed drag on?
No, it will not drag on. Numerous proposals have already been put forward to all Government Departments and agencies concerning proposals for the millennium. As I said recently, I am anxious that the Government be involved in co-ordinating a limited number of national events, making sure there is activity in the regions and, where appropriate, linking in to other events. It might be possible in some cases for the Government to fund or partially fund some of those events. No proposal has been received from any of the churches to the effect proposed by Deputy Bruton although proposals relating to churches from a historical and heritage point of view have been received. When the Deputy raised this issue in this House some weeks ago, I discussed it with some of the people on the millennium committee. It is a suggestion which should be put to the churches.
I am surprised that nobody thought of this before now and that the issue had to be raised in this House. Is the Government proactively seeking proposals on the matter and when does the Taoiseach expect the Government to make a decision on the matter?
I hope the Government will be able to appoint a small millennium group in the near future which would deal with some of the main millennium events. Thousands of events are due to take place but I believe the Government should focus on a small number of national, regional and local ones. The proposal in regard to the churches is a good one, particularly in view of the historical significance of the millennium.
I take it from the question that the church leaders referred to are those in the Judaeo-Christian tradition. Has any contact been made with Islamic, Hindu or other religious leaders, particularly in the light of various instances of racism in this country? It would be very important to make such contact in order to ensure total equality of rights for all people and religions.
I think we should wait and consider the Deputy's suggestion when a concrete proposal has been constructed.
What about atheists?
One does not deny the validity of other religions by commemorating one's own.