Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I agree with the Taoiseach that it is obvious changes in the structures, particularly at primary level, are required, considering the ownership of so many schools lies in the hands of the church. In that context, did the Taoiseach discuss the undoubted difficulties that many boards of management face in that they are voluntary and under the auspices of a patron? Is the church aware of the difficulties at this level? Was this included in the discussions on the changed structure to be adopted for future years?

One of the significant difficulties faced by the Taoiseach on behalf of the country is the confusion and lack of understanding between the Christian world and the Islamic world which comes to a head with the issue of Turkey's accession to the European Union, the issues to do with Iran and Iraq and the Middle East in general.

I refer to the University of Alexandria which has a significant cultural dimension to its education programme by examining the differences and difficulties which exist between religions and how a more profound and broad understanding can be achieved. Given that we are now dealing with a huge number of different nationalities due to immigration, is there a role for the involvement of education in some shape or other in dealing with cultural issues to promote understanding by persons of different religions and those who may be of the Christian faith? An understanding of culture and tradition would go a long way towards breaking down some of the barriers that clearly do exist. Was that issue raised, or does the Taoiseach see the Department of Education and Science, universities or the academic world having some role and dimension in that important area?

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