asked the Minister for Education if he proposes to take steps to ensure that a suitably mounted national flag stands in a prominent position in each classroom of primary and post-primary schools so that principles of nationhood may be inculcated in the children in a responsible manner commensurate with Christian tenets.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Flag Display.
48.
Mr. R. Burke
There is a recognised protocol in the correct display of the national flag. While it might be considered desirable to have the flag displayed in schools and whilst it is open to individual school authorities to do so appropriately I do not think this should be imposed by official direction.
Would the Minister be in favour of encouraging this because there is almost embarrassment over expression of any patriotic sentiment in our country today? Would the Minister not agree with the sentiment expressed in this question, that there should be an attempt made to inculcate some patriotism by the presence of the flag in a schoolroom?
Mr. R. Burke
I think the teachers are well qualified to deal with the substance of the question, which is the inculcation of patriotism. I would draw the attention of the House to the excellent sentiment expressed at the end of the question: "commensurate with Christian tenets".