Deputy O’Flynn Defends Dáil Prayer Against Secular Reform Proposals

24.02.2025

A proposal by the Social Democrats and Labour Party to eliminate the traditional prayer before each Dáil session has sparked strong opposition from Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn, who has called the move an attack on Ireland’s Christian heritage.

Currently, the Dáil begins its proceedings with a short prayer recited in both Irish and English by the Ceann Comhairle, followed by 30 seconds of silent reflection. However, the Social Democrats have put forward a proposal suggesting that this practice should be replaced with a more secular alternative, arguing that it should better reflect modern Ireland.

Deputy O’Flynn strongly condemned the proposal, asserting that it disregards Ireland’s deep-rooted Christian traditions. “No matter how much it may irk the Social Democrats, Labour, and similar parties of the hard left, we are a Christian nation built on Christian values,” he stated. He also questioned how similar suggestions would be received in other religious nations, particularly Islamic countries, if an equivalent call to prayer were to be removed.

O’Flynn warned that eliminating the prayer would further erode Christian values in Ireland and contradict the inclusive ideals often promoted by those advocating for the change. “For parties that preach so often about inclusivity, they seem to be forgetting to include the beliefs of the majority in their attempts to undermine Christian values at every opportunity,” he said.

Rather than removing the prayer, the Cork TD has called for a dedicated prayer room in Leinster House, similar to those found in airports, where members of all faiths and none could take time for reflection and prayer. “In an increasingly divided world, I firmly believe that more prayer, reflection, and understanding is needed, not less,” he remarked.

O’Flynn has urged fellow members of the Oireachtas to recognize the significance of preserving this longstanding tradition, which he says honors both the faith and history of Ireland.Deputy