Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2016
194. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills when it is proposed to introduce the new religion and ethics curriculum in primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37112/16]
View answerThe Advisory Group to the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector recommended in its report that programmes in Education about Religion and Beliefs (ERB) and Ethics be developed. The NCCA was asked to explore the development of such programmes.
The NCCA produced a Consultation Paper in 2015 outlining the proposed rationale, vision, aims and features of a curriculum in ERB and Ethics, and engaged in an extensive consultation process with patrons, education partners, schools, teachers and parents.
I have recently received a report on the consultation process from the NCCA, which will be published shortly. The report outlines the key messages arising from the consultation process and emerging directions for the development of a curriculum. I am considering the NCCA’s advice on the approach and timelines to be adopted in developing curriculum provision for Education about Religions and Beliefs and Ethics at primary level.
