No conversion on television

Since 1976 Portugal's legislation provides for the separation of church and state. Notwithstanding that, the Cardinal Partriarch of Lisbon José da Cruz Policarpo addressed the nation on December 24 on the public service broadcaster RTP. Fernanda Câncio criticises this in the daily Diário de Notícias: "There are few things funnier than someone who is given eight minutes of prime time and who with an envelope which says 'message to the nation' in his hand - a privilege reserved by law for the head of state, the prime minister and the parliament speaker - spreads religious propaganda. ... The law is clear: political propaganda (which isn't allowed on public holidays) is forbidden outside of the authorised broadcasting times. Only political organisations, environmental associations, sports clubs, etc, are entitled to broadcasting time - never religious institutions. This is a measure aimed at guaranteeing religious pluralism. ... I don't mean to banish any gods ... but I demand not to have people trying to convert me or insult me on public broadcasting channels. Enough of this. I want the country that the law guarantees me, one that is non-denominational and free of cardinals." 

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