Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

Following a detailed analysis of projected demographic growth over the coming years and consultation with patron bodies, the former Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Batt O'Keeffe, approved seven new primary schools to open in September in rapidly developing areas. These include three new community national schools in locations in Balbriggan, County Dublin, Navan, County Meath and Naas, County Kildare. The addition of further schools to the community national school model already being piloted in two schools in Dublin 15 will enhance the capacity to make informed decisions on the further roll-out of this new model of patronage in other locations in the future.

The model is proceeding on the basis of clearly stated principles in respect of the availability of religious education during the school day, in conformity with the wishes of parents. The schools welcome and respect all faiths and none and seek to provide for religious education in the main faiths represented within them. This commitment is an important distinguishing feature of the model. The schools also seek to cater for parents who do not wish their children to receive religious education in any one particular faith and they operate through an ethos of inclusiveness and respect for all beliefs, both religious and non-religious.

A multi-belief religious education programme in line with these principles is being developed on an action research basis by the current patron-designate, County Dublin VEC, under the working title, Goodness Me - Goodness You. Developing the programme through action research allows faith communities, teachers, parents and others involved to share in addressing the challenges involved and this process is being supported, in an advisory capacity, by a reference group chaired by County Dublin VEC. The group includes representatives of the main churches and faith or belief groups as well as experts in curriculum development and the teaching of religion. It also includes representatives of non-theist and polytheist perspectives, such as the Humanist Association and the Buddhist community to ensure the programme also reflects the wishes of parents who do not wish their children to participate in faith specific religious education. The group is a forum for the discussion of the many issues that arise as the programme is being developed but it does not have a role in the supervision of religious education in the community national schools.

It is important to say that feedback to date from those involved in the programme on the ground has been very positive. It has been welcomed in particular by parents of children in the schools who have direct experience of the lessons and materials being delivered.

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