The Seanad is to hold a debate on broadcasting next Thursday amid complaints from some members about alleged blasphemy on last Friday's Late Late Show on RTE.
A sketch by comedian Tommy Tiernan on the show led to a number of complaints to the Catholic Press and Information Office. RTE cancelled the daytime repeat of the show because of the sketch and a separate item on bullying.
Mr Don Lydon (FF) called for a debate on broadcasting because of what he called the "decline in broadcasting generally" and particularly "the blasphemous portrayal of Christ" on The Late Late Show. Mr Labhras O Murchu (FF) said there was a "very, very thin line between satire and blasphemy" and that line had been crossed by The Late Late Show.
The Leader of the House, Mr Donie Cassidy (FF), told senators that a debate on broadcasting would be scheduled for next Thursday.
Mr David Norris said he was "greatly concerned" at the status of the Almighty if He needed the help of Senators O Murchu and Lydon to protect Him.
