Fiona Irwin:

In response to your questions, I believe that the freedom to practice a religion or have none at all is a fundamental right. It should not have an impact on access to education, health or any basic services provided by the State.

In that spirit, I could answer yes to questions one and two. For question three, I think that believers in all religions, or none, should have respect for each others beliefs. I support the criminalisation of incitement to hatred which I suppose is more aggressive than blasphemy.

Question 4 holds a conflict of interest for me as I work for an institution with the involvement of a religious order. However, I would support a detachment of a religious ethos from the mission statement of any future hospital developments that had State funding and the equal treatment in hospital of all those of any religion needing pastoral care or the attendance of their pastors.

For question 5, I can answer a qualified yes, simply because that would be my instinct, but I would need to familiarise myself better with the implications of that legislation.

For question 6, I’m not well-informed on tax exemptions, so would need to know more about those that apply to religions before commenting.

I hope that gives some clarity.

In addition, see the statement provided by the Green Party on behalf of all its candidates.
Green Party statement

Peadar Toibin:

See the statement provided by Sinn Fein on behalf of all its candidates.

Jenny McHugh:

See the statement provided by the Labour Party on behalf of all its candidates.

Damien English:

See the statement provided by Fine Gael on behalf of all its candidates.

Catherine Yore:

See the statement provided by Fine Gael on behalf of all its candidates.

Ray Butler:

See the statement provided by Fine Gael on behalf of all its candidates.

Seamus McDonagh:

See the statement provided by the Workers’ Party on behalf of all its candidates.

No Response Received From:

Johnny Brady

Shane Cassells

Manus MacMeanmain

Candidates Not Contacted:

Stephen Ball

Ronan Carolan

Fine Gael Statement

Green Party Statement

Labour Party Statement

Sinn Fein Statement

Workers’ Party Statement