Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Under the new framework for junior cycle, schools will design programmes to reflect not only the key skills and statements of learning of the framework but also to reflect teacher qualifications and the identified needs of students. All junior cycle students will be required to study English, Irish and mathematics. Thereafter, schools will have the flexibility and autonomy to offer short courses and to choose from 18 other subjects, including history.

The vast majority of schools already offer history. More than 90% of students choose history although it is compulsory in only half our schools. Curriculum choice is important in motivating students to learn and to remain in school to completion of senior cycle. Overall, I am in favour of leaving the decision on what is offered at the discretion of each school. I emphasise the fact that 90% of all second level students are taking history.

See this speech in context