Denise Mitchell (Dublin Bay North, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Bill and the decision by the Minister, Deputy Richard Bruton, to review the relationships and sexuality education aspects of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum. Unfortunately, many modules on the sex education syllabus are outdated in modern society and we need a more inclusive and reflective syllabus. That means being inclusive of young people who are LGBT or who have a disability. The syllabus must be factual and must not be hampered by religious views on the topic. Students must be informed of all contraceptive options. We must remember that just because a school has a Catholic ethos does not mean all its students share the same religious views. Those with differing views are entitled to be fully informed on these topics.

It is very important that SPHE teachers be supported. It is an uncomfortable topic for many teachers, which is why training, supports and a formal structure for SPHE are required. By having these elements in place, we will ensure that young people get the information they need in a professional manner. We should not outsource the teaching of one of the most important parts of the curriculum to agencies or providers which are not under the scrutiny of the Department of Education and Skills.

I wish to mention briefly the importance of making consent a key part of any sex education curriculum in schools. This is a very common-sense proposal and one that I am sure all Members will support.

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