Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 403: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the content of a press article (details supplied); and if she is satisfied that the organisation referred to therein should have access to schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13590/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Officials within my Department are aware of the press article referred to by the Deputy.

Schools may invite visitors to support the work of the curriculum where appropriate.

My Department has recently issued best practice guidelines to schools which include specific guidance relating to the role of any visitors in supporting the implementation of the Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme. These guidelines require that visits are carefully planned with the relevant school personnel, and that the content of talks/programmes by outside facilitators are consistent with school policies, and with the SPHE programme.

It is a matter for each school authority to decide on the suitability of any proposed visitors and to determine the suitability of the support materials and resources to be used.