I have always respected both sides of the argument in the forthcoming Bill on legislation for the X case, namely, the protection of life during pregnancy Bill 2013. I have listened very carefully to and have attended briefings from those on both sides of the House. I have thought long and hard about it.

As a practising Catholic and resident organist in my local church on Sundays, I was shocked and disappointed by what happened recently. I understand for the next six weeks pro-life people will be given the opportunity to speak from the pulpit. We have had calls from religious people to keep politics out of religion. I ask that this debate be fair and equal. Leaflets were handed out at mass last Sunday, which stated right now our Government proposes dangerous and unjust abortion legislation. That is an untrue statement. If people are being given the opportunity to stand up and give one side of the argument, I propose that the other side be given equal time.

Do you have a question for the Leader?

I say this as somebody who has supported life and listened to both sides of the debate.

Do you have a question for the Leader? There have been hearings on the matter and Bill has yet to be published.

The Senator should talk to the parish priest.

Senator Moran, without interruption.

We will have a debate on this.

I am asking that when the debate-----

Does the Senator want to silence the church?

I do not want to silence the church.

There is more than one church in this country.

I ask that the church give both sides-----

Senator, do you have a question for the Leader?

In other words, be quiet.

Senator, through the Chair. Do you have a question for the Leader?

I ask that the debate be fair and equal. The Primate of All Ireland has said the life of the child is sacrosanct, with which I agree.

You are way over time.

Yet, at the same time that same person can be present in a room where a child was abused, that was known and nothing was done about it. The abuse was not reported. I ask that both sides be given equal opportunity and time to speak on the matter.

On a point of order, I do not believe the Senator intended to say what she did, but she should retract it. What she said is absolutely incorrect and is defamatory.

I did not hear what she said. Resume your seat.

It will be on the record. I do not think she intended to say it.

Could the Senator enlighten us as to how he knows what another person intended to say?

I call on Senator Quinn.