asked the Minister for Education if she will take steps to ensure that material of a denominational nature does not appear in secular primary school textbooks or course material (details supplied), since national schools are open to pupils of all religious denominations and of none, and that the rules for such schools specify that periods of religious instruction are separately time-tabled; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Secular Primary School Textbooks.
35.
It would appear that the Deputy's question has reference to material included in handbooks for teachers and not to textbooks or materials provided directly for the use of pupils.
The handbooks in question include a statement in the preface to the effect that if a teacher feels that a particular lesson is not appropriate, it may be altered or omitted. Teachers are encouraged to select the programme most suitable for each school and the child's own environment is a relevant consideration when this selection is being made.
As the Deputy will be aware a review of the primary school curriculum is currently being undertaken.