I propose to take Questions Nos. 86, 91 and 92 together.
The process of structured dialogue between the Government and the churches, faith communities and non-confessional organisations in Ireland was inaugurated with a gathering of dialogue partners at Dublin Castle on 26 February, 2007. This will soon be followed a series of bilateral meetings with the dialogue partners.
I believe that we have a political and civic culture in Ireland that, while holding no institution or individual above the law, respects the place of religious belief and practice. It will be open to all partners as the dialogue continues to express their views on subjects of mutual interest and to bring forward proposals for change. I am aware from the preliminary consultations with bodies on the dialogue process that the issues raised by the Deputy are likely to be of interest to partners in the process.
The secretariat for the dialogue process will be provided by my Department, but it is not envisaged that this process should in any way displace the existing relationships between Departments of State and the dialogue partners nor diminish the responsibility, in the first instance, of Ministers with regard to issues arising in relation to their assigned functions. If the issues suggested by the Deputy should arise, they will be addressed through the appropriate channels. Similarly, the detailed aspects of the issues raised by the Deputy should be addressed to the relevant Ministers.