Bishops criticise increasing secularism in Irish society

Catholic and Church of Ireland bishops in Co Monaghan have joined forces to criticise increasing secularism in Irish society.

The Catholic bishop of Clogher, Dr Joseph Duffy, and his Church of Ireland counterpart, Bishop Michael Jackson, say Irish people need to reassess their values and Christmas provides an opportunity to do so.

They claim society has suffered due to a slide towards secularism and there is currently great anxiety about a loss of the sacred.

Appealing for greater care on the roads and a more responsible attitude to alcohol, they are also calling for more neighbourliness and greater value to be placed on voluntary effort.