Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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48. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to require all primary and post-primary students to undertake instruction in swimming and life saving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52036/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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At primary level, the curriculum in Physical Education includes six broad strands featuring Athletics, Dance, Gymnastics, Games, Outdoor and adventure activities and Aquatics. While five of the strands are designed to be implemented each year where possible, the Aquatics strand is outlined for implementation at any level, depending on the availability of facilities in the area.

The Physical Education curricula at both primary and second level have been developed on the understanding that facilities available to schools vary. Consequently, they offer a level of flexibility that allows each individual school to design a programme that can be delivered using the resources and supports available to it.