Social Democrats want Churches out of health and education

2nd March 2021

The Social Democrats have indicated they want the Churches removed from health and education, and have proposed a Citizens’ Assembly to discuss further  ‘separating’ Church and State. The party has previously said religion should be removed from the school day. State-funding for faith schools is commonplace across Europe. In 2018, party co-leader, Roisin Shorthall, warned the nuns “haven’t gone away” when plans to relocate the National Maternity Hospital to the grounds of St Vincent’s hospital were announced.

Speaking at their annual conference over the weekend, Co-leader, Catherine Murphy TD said social democracy strives for a Republic of equals, a real Republic which recognises that achieving equality is about more than just providing opportunities—its about ensuring fair outcomes.

“This Republic of equals must be rights based, modern and pluralistic. Civic society must exist separately. For that reason, a modern democracy has to include separating Church and State”.

She continued: “The Social Democrats respect the role of different faiths in the lives of many people, but the blurring of the lines between Church and State that led to so many abuses is still unfortunately part of modern Ireland. We are seeking an agreed approach and we are calling for a Citizens’ Assembly to be established to look at the role of religion in areas like health, and education, and in public life”.

“This would be done in a respectful, deliberative, and evidence-based way, which has been the hallmark of Citizens’ Assemblies to date.”