No God, No Morals? Are Secular Schools Failing Our Children?

Should Religion Be Removed From Irish Schools, Or Is It Part Of Who We Are?

Religion has been at the heart of Irish education for generations, but is it time for that to change?

With around 90% of Ireland’s primary schools still under religious patronage, a Department of Education survey reveals a divided nation. While 60% of parents are happy to send their children to religious schools, 40% would prefer an alternative.

Some argue that religion has no place in publicly funded schools and that faith should be taught at home or in church, not in the classroom. Others believe Ireland’s Catholic traditions are an important part of our national identity and that religious education helps instil morals, respect and good values in children.

But does teaching religion make children better people? Should taxpayers be funding schools with a religious ethos? And are parents who don’t want religious education being left with little choice?

In this episode, Niall opens the phone lines to listeners for a lively debate about faith, education, parental choice and the future of Ireland’s schools.

**Should religion be taken out of the classroom altogether, or are we in danger of throwing away an important part of our culture and identity?**