Aontú Rep Rallying Support for Masses to Remain Open

Aontú Rep for Cork North West Becky Kealy has written to the Bishops of Cork on behalf of young Catholics in the area to raise the issue of masses remaining suspended and churches closed, and the impact this has had on people of faith.

Becky Kealy: “The targeting of masses and other religious services amidst this pandemic has been wholly unfair and disproportionate. People of faith have shown the utmost good faith in adhering to government regulations, have answered Ireland’s call, and have prayed for our country throughout the pandemic. There has not been a cluster or outbreak linked to a socially-distanced mass. The suspension of religious services has had a damaging effect on elderly people who so treasure their opportunLetter to the Bishopity to attend mass on a Sunday, and has burdened the faith of many at a time when their faith has been their rock as always.”

“In our letter, we expressed our hope that in the meeting between an Taoiseach and the four bishops, agreement will be reached for religious services to be held unaffected and to be protected throughout the coming months. It is inexplicable how one can go to mass in the North but not in the South. I ask an Taoiseach to ensure people of faith can continue to attend mass and practice their faith commensurate with socially distancing.”

Letter to the Bishop

The Irish political system is radically broken

In Ireland the vast majority of elected representatives put a finger in the air to check which way the political wind is blowing. They have one eye on their leaders – seeking brownie points – and another eye keeping their seat safe. If elected reps shut up and do as they’re told, they are promoted; if they stand up for what they believe in, they are demoted. No wonder we have the political class we have. No wonder one point one billion euro is being buried in a hole under the National Children’s Hospital and that Stormont is in stalemate.

Throughout Ireland, many people are now afraid to say what they feel, many are afraid to respectfully engage on a range of different topics. Many feel there is a new censorship and a new political correctness in Ireland, that opposition to the establishment is being deleted.

Respectful opposition is not the enemy. Respectful opposition is a critical element of a functional democracy. Aontú will have the backbone to stand up, without fear, for you.