Raised at the Senate today : Dec 18th
Senator David Norris: Information Zoom I would like to raise a seasonal issue. Last night, I attended a concert at St. Ann’s Church on Dawson Street. The superb music was provided by the gay and lesbian choir, Gloria.

The church was packed to the rafters with happy people and families. Most of the large collection that was taken will be given to the Irish Hospice Foundation.

Those who provided sign language facilities to a group of deaf people in attendance were absolutely unbelievable and fantastic. I spent a lot of time watching the balletic movements of their hands, which made the words come alive. I would like to ask for a debate on inclusiveness in this context. It seems to me that we have empty churches all over the city.

Last night, the gay community packed a church with people whose spirituality has been denied for so long. Similarly, the State marginalised various groups of people, including gay people, for many years. A wonderful energy can be released when we are inclusive.