Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

301. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the redeveloped primary school curriculum, and the associated well-being strand, includes any definitions or references to gender identity, gender expression, or related terminology; if so, to provide the full text of such references; and if she will clarify whether these references are consistent with biological definitions of sex recognised in medicine and law. [52865/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

“Being well” is one of the 7 key competencies of the new curriculum. “Being well” develops children’s understanding and appreciation of wellbeing and their ability to be as healthy as they can be - physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. It fosters self-acceptance and self-awareness and promotes the importance of children seeing themselves as competent and resourceful. This supports their ability to deal with the normal challenges of life, become resilient, and cope in a variety of situations and circumstances. Wellbeing is one of five broad curriculum areas and will consist of Physical Education and Social, Personal and Health Education and will also incorporate Values education.

The Wellbeing specification at primary level does not include a Learning Outcome related to gender identity.

At primary level, the focus is on developing a positive sense of self-identity, recognising and valuing the diversity of all individuals, challenging gender stereotypes, and addressing issues such as discrimination and bullying.

The Bí Cineálta: Procedures for Primary and Post-Primary Schools (2024) provide guidance on preventing and responding to bullying. They include a non-exhaustive list of bullying types which include gender identity-based bullying. The Wellbeing specification includes Learning Outcomes that support children to understand and address bullying. The Wellbeing specification and the Bí Cineálta procedures are aligned in their shared aim of promoting wellbeing, inclusion, and respect for all.