Pro-crucifix petition presented to European Parliament

A 10,000 strong petition calling on EU member states to retain the right to allow religious symbols in public places was yesterday presented to the President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek.

The petition will now be examined by the Petitions Committee of the EP, headed by an Italian MEP, who has already promised to take action on its content in a speedy manner.

Presenting the petition, Italian MEP Cristina Muscardini from the European People's Party criticised the decision taken by the European Court of Human rights banning the display of a crucifix in an Italian school. She said it was positive that the court had now accepted to hear Italy's appeal on the issue.

The petition urges the European Parliament to protect the right of EU member states to hold onto their traditions and values and decide for themselves whether or not to display religious symbols in public places such as schools, ministries, hospitals and other administrative edifices.

"Through this petition we want to defend the Cross not only for its religious value but also to defend our fundamental rights as EU citizens," Ms Muscardini told The Times.

"The right of millions of citizens who identify themselves with the Cross cannot be cancelled by a simple court case. The crucifix is also a symbol of our identity which we want to protect."

Last November, the European Court of Human Rights, which is not an EU institution, ruled in favour of a mother in Italy who complained that crucifixes were a religious symbol which did not belong in State-run classrooms and claimed they interfered with the way she wanted to raise her two children.

This decision caused a public uproar in a number of member states particularly those with a strong Christian background including Italy and Malta.

However, following an appeal filed by Italy and backed by the Vatican, the Court last week agreed to re-examine the ruling, saying there were sufficient grounds on which the Italian appeal can be heard.

Malta will be joining Italy's appeal case "on a point of principle".

Announcing the move in Parliament, Prime Minister Gonzi said a country which has upheld particular values and traditions for centuries should not be made to change them just because an individual objects to them.

A date for the hearing of the appeal and a possible decision has not yet been set.

The European Court of Human rights was set up 50 years ago to ensure that states comply with their obligations under the European Convention of Human Rights and its protocols. As an international court it has jurisdiction to deal with applications from individuals or States complaining of violations of the civil and political rights set out in the Convention.

The court's final judgments are binding.