The Catholic Commission for Social Justice has called for a full public consultation and public debate on all of the issues related to the system of National Awards, in particular, the Trinity Cross.

In a press release dated June 7, the CCSJ states that it stands ready to participate in such consultations. The full text of the release is as follows:

“The Catholic Commission for Social Justice has noted the decision, as announced by the Honourable Prime Minister in Parliament on Friday, June 2, 2006, that Cabinet has agreed to establish a committee to “review all aspects of the Nation’s highest Award and also to examine such other National Symbols and Observances which may be considered discriminatory and make appropriate recommendations to Government”. 

In this connection the Commission wishes to recall the recommendation in the de la Bastide Committee Report* for a full public consultation and public debate on all of the issues related to the System of National Awards, in particular, the Trinity Cross.

The Commission endorses this recommendation of the de la Bastide Committee, and wishes to state that the need for full public consultation has become all the more urgent and important in the light of the comprehensive and wide ranging mandate of the newly established Cabinet Committee.

The Catholic Commission for Social Justice stands ready to participate in such consultations.

*See footnote on Pg. 80 regarding the Trinity Cross Judgement, by The Honourable Mr Justice P Jamadar, Dated May 26, 2006:
“In my opinion, the recommendation in the de la Bastide Committee Report that there be a full public debate on the issues concerning National Awards is one worth heeding. There is clearly an urgent need for such public consultation and for subsequent consensual decision-making regarding the award of the Trinity Cross.”

For further information call Fr Michael Moses, chair, CCSJ at 622-6680.