Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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53. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to introduce a subject on education regarding religions, beliefs and ethics in primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2008/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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The Advisory Group to the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector recommended in its report that programmes in Education about Religion and Beliefs (ERB) and Ethics be developed. The NCCA was asked, in response to the report, to explore the development of such programmes.

The NCCA produced a Consultation Paper in 2015 outlining the proposed rationale, vision, aims and features of a curriculum in ERB and Ethics, and engaged in an extensive consultation process with patrons, education partners, schools, teachers and parents.  I have received a report on the consultation process from the NCCA, which outlines the key messages arising from the consultation process and emerging directions for the development of a curriculum.  It is planned to publish the final Consultation Report shortly. The NCCA will then be commencing work with a network of schools on gathering and sharing examples of good practice in the area of ERB and Ethics.