Six far-left TDs protested the recitation of a prayer before yesterday’s Dáil session by remaining firmly seated throughout its duration. This violated the protocol of standing respectfully while the Ceann Comhairle recits the prayer. TDs are also required to stand during the new 30 second period of reflection, introduced to appease those of no religion. However, some of the protesting TDs  held aloft posters stating “Separate Church and State” even during this silent time. The TDs want the prayer to be abolished entirely. The prayer states: “Direct we beseech thee O Lord, our actions by Thy holy inspiration, and carry them on so that every word and work of ours may always begin from Thee and by Thee be happily ended.”