Vol. 395 No. 1
97 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the introduction of education for mutual understanding in schools in Northern Ireland; if she will consider introducing similar courses in schools in this State to promote knowledge and understanding of all persons and cultures on this island; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I am aware of the introduction of education for mutual understanding in schools in Northern Ireland.
In the context of promoting mutual understanding the European Studies (Ireland and Great Britain) project (1986-1992) has been jointly organised and funded by the Department of Education (Northern Ireland), the Department of Education (Republic of Ireland) and the Department of Education and Science (England). Among its aims are the following: (i) to allow pupils in Ireland, North and South, and in England to undertake joint investigation of historical and geographical topics; (ii) to provide opportunity for pupils to see the perspectives of other pupils through the collaborative analysis of historical/ environmental topics and (iii) to help pupils to understand relationships within Ireland and between Ireland and Great Britain within the context of Europe.
In addition many of our schools participate in the Co-operation North programme, and in the Wider Horizons programme funded by the International Fund for Ireland.
Apart from such specific projects I see the promotion of knowledge and understanding as an essential element of all our educational programmes.
