THE MINISTER for Social Protection accused the Labour finance spokeswoman of ridiculing religion during heated exchanges.

Eamon Ó Cuív accused Labour of believing there was a magic solution to the banking crisis that would keep the ATMs going and people’s deposits safe while at the same time allowing banks to close.

As exchanges continued between the Minister and Joan Burton, she asked: “Is this the answer to the Minister’s prayers?’’

Mr Ó Cuív said he was amused by the hypocrisy in the House.

“I understand there was a religious service for deceased members of the House yesterday. For those who ridicule religion, it amazes me that many of them will attend such a service.’’

He added: “Yes, I admit to having a belief in God. I do not know whether many other members share that belief any longer, and the ridicule of religion shows a certain lack of tolerance.’’

Ms Burton asked the Minister to say who had ridiculed religion.

“No one in this House ridiculed anyone’s religion,’’ she said. “I have the height of respect for whatever religious and political convictions the Minister has.’’

Mr Ó Cuív said Ms Burton was ridiculing prayer.

Fine Gael’s Simon Coveney said he wanted clarity from Mr Ó Cuív when he raised religious beliefs as part of the debate.

“That is a private matter and has nothing to do with politics,’’ Mr Coveney added.

Mr Ó Cuív said that Ms Burton was “the one who threw it up, not me’’.

He added it was amazing that “some people can dish it out but they cannot take it’’.

Ms Burton said she had asked a question and had not commented on the religious views of the Minister or his party.

Fine Gael’s Fergus O’Dowd said: “It is the wrath of the people the Minister should fear before the wrath of God in this case.’’