Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 Feb 2000

Vol. 515 No. 1

Written Answers. - Education System.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

211 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if adequate preventative programmes are in place in the educational system in view of increasing public concern on the activities of cults, sects and new religious movements involving doubtful methods of recruitment and undue pressure on young people in the view of tragedies internationally such as the tragic events at Waco in the US, the mass suicides of Georgetown in Guyana and the recent affair of the Solar Temple sect in Switzerland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5379/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods):

Article 44 of Bunreacht na hÉireann allows for freedom of practice of religion and the freedom of conscience. However, these rights are subject to public order and morality.

The education system has as one of its objectives the production of well balanced and rounded individuals capable of playing their full part in society. This objective permeates the curriculum in our schools at first and second levels and provides a safeguard against more extreme influences on our young people.

At primary level, the revised curriculum includes social, personal and health education which provides particular opportunities to foster personal development, health and well-being in the individual child and to help him or her to become an active and responsible citizen in society. The SPHE programme is designed to enable children to develop a framework of values, attitudes, understanding and skills that will inform their decisions and actions both now and in the future.

Civil, social and political education is now a compulsory subject at junior cycle in all recognised second level schools. The syllabus is designed to allow schools to cater for the particular needs and concerns of their pupils. Schools are enabled, as they see fit, to address such issues as the possible danger for people of coming under the influence of undesirable or extremist groups. CSPE helps pupils to develop sound judgment and a sense of responsibility. The transition year programme also enables schools to address such issues.