Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:29 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education if he has satisfied himself with the extent and scope of European studies in primary and second level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - European Studies in Schools.
Learning about Europe is a cross-curricular theme in our schools. Apart from subjects which have an obvious European dimension — modern continental languages, civics, history, geography, music, art, economics, business studies — there are subjects which may provide further opportunities to reinforce the European awareness of young people. Irish and English, for example, are facets of a wider European linguistic and cultural organism. The sciences and mathematics have been enriched and developed by European co-operation. the home economics programme extends to areas such as consumer affairs, cuisine and fashion; these have a European and, indeed, a wider focus.
In the light of the position as outlined here, I am satisfied that schools foster an appreciation of their European heritage among young people and develop a genuine sense of European citizenship in them.