Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support my colleague, Senator Bradford, on the appointment of a European Commissioner. One of the elements of politics and government in this country that have scandalised people is how often decisions about personnel seem to be taken not on the basis of what is in the public interest or who is the best person for the job but according to which narrow political interest has to be placated. I refer to the recent resignation of the Minister for Justice and Equality. While some of his political proposals were socially toxic, not least the troubling children and family relationship legislation, he was unjustly treated in light of his work rate and ability. It was a matter of protecting the Taoiseach and kowtowing to public perception rather than serving the common good. If we want to improve the reputation of politics in this country we must start by appointing people to positions for which they are fit, appointing them on merit and to removing them for demonstrable malfeasance or incompetence.

A previous speaker requested that the Minister for Education and Skills be invited to the House. I do not know who will be Minister in a couple of months' time but irrespective whether it is the current Minister, Deputy Quinn, or somebody else I would like to discuss the issue of civic, social and political education, CSPE. The Association of CSPE Teachers has expressed concern about the prospect of CSPE being removed as a compulsory State examinable subject in the new junior cycle curriculum. I recognise that the curriculum is crowded but the association rightly pointed out that Irish students rank highly in a comparative survey of civic knowledge among 14 year olds in 38 countries. Is there a danger that our ranking will be affected if we change the status of CSPE? When we consider people's disenchantment with politics and the lack of interest among younger voters in particular, it is important that we do all we can to promote active citizenship and participation in our political system. The removal of the compulsory status for CSPE is cause for grave concern. We want a population who are well educated politically and who understand how our institutions work and their role in ensuring their functioning. I would like to hear from the Minister regarding whether that change is on the cards and if the decision can be reconsidered because it is a dangerous prospect.