Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I probably agree with everything the Deputy has said about the importance of music and the person's holistic development. We could probably all talk about the person's self-esteem and the value of music. Approximately a dozen arts programmes ran as summer schools last year to promote literacy in some disadvantaged areas among six to 11 year olds. These are the types of initiatives we have seen and I already referred to the ones I have seen. As I travel the country it is clear that music is alive and well in our schools. Music is a core part of the primary school curriculum. In Wexford I saw traditional music very strongly encouraged. Schools took the initiative to invite local traditional music players who come in willingly and teach the children every week. Other schools focus on instrumental music. Last week I was in a disadvantaged school in Killinarden, where the children were playing with their tin whistles and recorders. Teachers in all schools make great use of music.

Two weeks ago I went to the gaelscoil in Maynooth where children from the first communion class and the sixth class preparing for confirmation were all proud to sing the hymns they were going to sing in their ceremonies in the coming weeks. Across the spectrum music plays a central part. Music is not a core subject on the leaving certificate, but is a choice subject in second level schools. However, we should consider the number of second level schools with orchestras and choirs, and in particular the number performing musicals. In the past year I attended a performance of "Annie" and am about to go to see "Calamity Jane". "Oklahoma" is another popular musical. It is wonderful to see the teamwork not just within schools but also in collaboration with other schools. My school, Sion Hill, is about to stage a production with Oatlands College. Loretto in Foxrock will work with Blackrock College and CBC in Monkstown will work with St. Joseph of Cluny. That type of involvement is good for the overall development of the student.

All of us in this House accept the importance and value of music. In addition to investment from the Department and through the curriculum, schools should not ignore the wealth of musical talent and expertise in their communities and of people who are more than willing to give of their time. Schools should be willing to use such resources. I am happy to continue to work on the subject to see how it can be developed. I accept it forms part of the holistic development of every child.

See this speech in context