At its meeting today in Maynooth, the Council for Education of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference noted the launch of the consultation process by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) on Education about Religions & Beliefs & Ethics.
Bishop Brendan Kelly, Bishop of Achonry and chair of the Council for Education said, “The NCCA and the Report of the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector both emphasise that ERB & Ethics is not intended to replace denominational religious education. Rather it is intended to deepen awareness of various faiths and ethical approaches in all primary schools in the light of the growing diversity of Ireland’s population.
“It is widely recognised that Catholic schools are caring and inclusive communities. Catholic schools have adapted to demographic change and many schools have led the way by integrating migrants into local communities. Catholic schools have been leaders in areas such as social inclusion, special needs and traveller education.”
“I encourage all of the partners in Catholic schools to participate in the NCCA consultation so that their experience and expertise may inform this process,” Bishop Kelly said.
ENDS
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444