Vol. 548 No. 4
237 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools where religious education has been formally introduced as an examination subject since September 2000 for junior and leaving certificates; if the schools can be listed for each year; if schools for September 2002 have been selected; and if a list in this regard can be provided. [5239/02]
A syllabus for religious education at junior certificate was brought in on a phased basis in September 2000 for first examination in 2003 and 195 schools have already introduced the new syllabus. The syllabus will be an option for all schools from September 2002. An additional 149 schools have so far indicated their intention to offer the subject in September 2002. A list of the schools which offer religious education for examination at junior certificate is not readily available. I will, however, transmit the information to the Deputy as soon as it is available. There is currently no syllabus for religious education at leaving certificate level. A syllabus is being developed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment.
