40% of Irish parents prefer non‑religious primary schools

A Department of Education survey released this summer shows that 40 % of Irish parents do not want their children educated in schools under a religious patron.

The survey, which covered households with primary‑school‑age children, found that while 60 % are happy with a denominational school, 40.2 % of respondents who are linked to a denominational school would prefer a multi‑denominational ethos.

Currently, roughly 90 % of primary schools in the state operate under a Catholic or other religious patron, highlighting a gap between parental preference and the existing school landscape.

Background and commentary

Fifteen years ago the government launched a programme of school‑patronage divestment to increase choice, but progress has been slow. Professor Karin Fischer, speaking on The Claire Byrne Show, suggested that strong governmental inertia and incremental reforms have limited change, although she believes the public would be receptive if proposals were clearly explained.

Fischer cited Quebec’s model, where religious education was moved outside schools and local boards were created, as a feasible alternative for Ireland. Catholic patrons have publicly acknowledged the state’s role in providing greater diversity of school choice and support the divestment programme initiated 15 years ago.

Source: Newstalk. Photo: Jonathan Borba / Pexels.