Conor McGuinness (Waterford, Sinn Fein)

Education is the foundation of any progressive society. It shapes our children's futures, reflects our values and must adapt to the needs of a changing Ireland. For too long our education system has failed to keep pace with the diversity of modern Ireland. We need real diversity in school patronage which respects freedom of religion and finally puts parents and children at the heart of our education system. The facts speak for themselves. More than 90% of our primary schools remain under religious patronage and only 5% are multidenominational. Meanwhile a recent INTO survey found that only 4% of teachers believe sacramental preparation should be the role of the schools.

I speak today as the parent of children attending a Catholic school. I am very happy with the school, and with the patronage and ethos, but this is not to say there should not be choice for families and parents. Despite these realities the Government has downgraded its commitment, replacing action with a vague national convention. Worse still, patronage divestment has stalled, not because of a lack of demand from parents and school communities but because of poor engagement, unclear processes and no obligation on patrons to co-operate. This is an attack on parental choice and the constitutional right to freedom of religion.

Sinn Féin has long championed real choice in education. Our 2024 manifesto committed to a new strategy for diversification, supporting multidenominational and Irish-language Gaelscoileanna. When new schools are being created, and we all understand there is a need for new schools in most of our communities, they should be nondenominational by default to provide this diversity. This would ensure no family is forced to send their children into a system or ethos that does not respect their values. We should prioritise Gaelscoileanna. Irish-medium education should be part of this diversification and an important part of this conversation.

Meaningful consultation with parents is needed because communities should decide what is best for their children. The evidence is clear, with 61% of adults preferring multidenominational education compared to just 9% who favour religious-run schools. Teachers themselves demand change. However, the Government refuses to listen to the people who matter the most. This is about equality, choice and respect. No child should feel excluded in their own classroom. No parent should be forced to send their child to a school that does not align with their beliefs. I thank the Social Democrats for bringing this issue to the fore and forcing this debate in the House. I will support the motion and oppose the Government's countermotion, which rips the heart out of the proposal we are here to discuss.

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