Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Apr 2000

Vol. 517 No. 6

Written Answers. - Secondary School Curriculum.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

434 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if it is proposed to introduce theology into the secondary school curriculum; if so, if it is proposed to include this subject at both junior and senior levels; the timeframe for its introduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10797/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods):

A new junior cycle syllabus for religious education is being introduced in a selected number of schools from the start of the 2000-01 school year. It is intended to extend the option progressively in subsequent years to other schools. A further cohort of schools will be invited to offer the syllabus in 2001 and remainder in 2002. Religious education will be examined in the junior certificate for the first time in 2003.

The National Council for Curriculum and Examinations – NCCA – is preparing a draft syllabus in religious education for leaving certificate. This will be submitted to me in due course.

The junior certificate syllabus aims to help students to identify how understandings of God, religious traditions and, in particular, the Christian tradition, have contributed to the culture in which we live and continue to have an impact on personal lifestyle, interpersonal relationships and relationships between individuals and their communities and contexts. It aims to enable students to appreciate the richness of religious traditions and to acknowledge the non-religious interpretation of life. It also aims to contribute to the spiritual and moral development of the student.