Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to improve physical education training at primary school level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17558/13]

Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Physical education, PE, is a mandatory subject in all primary schools. The PE curriculum includes six strands that provide a balanced physical education programme. The strands are: Athletics, Dance, Gymnastics, Games, Outdoor and adventure activities, and Aquatics.

My Department also supports the Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme which is a mandatory requirement at primary level. SPHE stresses the importance of regular exercise, as well as the need for a balanced diet as being essential to physical and mental well being.

In addition, schools can also participate in the Active School Flag programme. Since September 2009, more than 1,000 primary schools have applied to participate in the programme. Schools are playing an important role in promoting physical activity, both through the formal curricula and also through extra curricula activities. However, their efforts must be supported and complemented by parents and the local community, and other stakeholders.