Education

It is an important time as to the relationship between religion and the State in Ireland. This has implications for education due to the intermingling, not to say enmeshment of religion and education. A pilot scheme was set up in Dublin under the VEC, in 3 schools in 2008.
Representatives have been sent from the HAI to ensure equality of treatment for the non-religious, within a system which has faith formation paid for by tax-payers. But is this enough? Should we press for faith formation to be parents’ responsibility and therefore outside schools? Or is that a debate for the future and parity is all that’s required?

At July’s meeting there will be a general discussion on the role of education in schools from 4-5.15pm. There will be a short break with refreshments after which a forum for members to share their views specifically on the role/position the HAI should be taking on the pilot. It may be that an EGM may be needed before future meetings with the VEC take place.
We will be emailing (or posting) different viewpoints beforehand to give information, allow members to formulate their opinions and encourage debate.
This will be an important meeting for members and those interested in the future of Irish State education. Please do try to attend. Comments via email, post or phone will be appreciated once the information is sent out for those who can’t make the meeting.

Date: 4th July 2010
Time: 4pm - 6pm
Venue: Buswell’s Hotel, 23-27 Molesworth Street, Dublin 1.