This week's Newsline again illustrates the divisions created when religion and politics are mixed. In setting out his case for the public funding of more Catholic schools, the head of the Catholic Education Service, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, has expressed his keenness for children to be segregated along religion lines. Meanwhile, new rules in the Irish parliament means members will be required to stand during prayer. The move has led at least one Irish politician, Ruth Coppinger TD, to declare "We have to separate State and Church". We quite agree.

Where religion divides, secularism can unite. Whilst everyone should be free to worship and observe their faith within the law, the value of keeping religion separate from the power of the state should be obvious to everyone. We have our sights set on the separation of religion and state. We campaign tirelessly to ensure equal respect for everyone's human rights so that no one is either advantaged or disadvantaged because of their beliefs.

If you're not a member of the NSS, please join today and help us to promote a secular, fairer, Britain. If you are a member, please make a donation to help us do to more to challenge religious privilege.