Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Education Minister Ruairí Quinn with school children in Dublin yesterday. Julien Behal/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Poll: Should religion have a role in education?

Yesterday it was recommended that a rule placing religion at the heart of primary education be reviewed but should religion play any role in schools?

YESTERDAY, THE FORUM on Patronage and Pluralism in Irish primary schools recommended the immediate review of a rule which obliges schools to place religion at the heart of all activities.

Rule 68 was published in 1965 and states that “of all the parts of a school curriculum Religious Instruction is by far the most important” and goes on to say that “a religious spirit should inform and vivify the whole work of the school”.

The rule is seen by some as a barrier to freeing up the primary sector to cater for all children who may or may not have a faith. Its proposed review has been welcomed by the Catholic School Partnership and Education Minister Ruairi Quinn who broadly welcomed the report yesterday.

But in reviewing this rule, we want to know do you think religion should still play a role in Irish education or none at all?


Poll Results:

No, it should have no role (2617)
Yes, it should have a role (902)
Don't know (78)

Minister: Primary school system needs to “adapt to more diverse society”

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
240 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds