Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Apr 1994

Vol. 441 No. 5

Written Answers. - School Text Books.

Tony Gregory

Question:

81 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education if she is concerned about the content of some school textbooks, in particular one book (details supplied) which animal welfare organisations believe encourage cruelty to animals; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I would like to assure the Deputy that as Minister for Education I am certainly concerned that school text books should not encourage cruelty to animals. From the details furnished by the Deputy it would seem that the text book concerned is an Irish reader for 4th class pupils which has been in use since 1988. Officials from my Department have been in contact with the publishers of the text. The publishers have given an assurance that they will give full and serious consideration to the points which have been raised with them in recent days regarding the text.

While not wanting in any way to imply that I condone the type of action depicted in the text, I would like to say to the Deputy that the context in which the story is set actually makes the point that the individual inflicting the act of cruelty is subsequently punished for the insensitivity. I am confident that children reading the story as a whole, would appreciate that there is an issue regarding the poor treatment of the dog and that the story as set out actually provides teachers with a useful teaching point whereby they can heighten pupils awareness of such issues.