I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 59 together.
Circular 0062/2018 provides clarification in respect of two key areas. The first key clarification is that where a school intends to provide religious instruction/faith formation, parents must give consent before admission to the class. This means that withdrawal does not arise because the parent has requested a place in the religious instruction class. The other key clarification is that classes following the NCCA Religious Education syllabus in ETB or Community schools cannot have any element of religious instruction or worship involved or forming any part of the class activity. This clear separation of religious instruction from the NCCA Religious Education syllabus has the effect of ensuring that withdrawal does not arise for students studying the NCCA Religious Education syllabus.
This is to ensure that the state’s Religious Education syllabus is not taught with any element of religious instruction or worship and that where religious instruction is provided, attendance is confined to those who request to attend.
This circular has no impact on a parent's right, under section 30 of the Education Act 1998 and the Constitution, to opt out of any subject which is contrary to the conscience of the parent of the student.