Is It Time to Kick Religion Out of the Classroom? Episode 686

On today’s episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by journalist Laura Perrins to tackle a debate that goes right to the heart of Irish education: is it time to remove religion from public schools altogether?

The discussion follows comments from Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins, who criticised what she described as a “fundamentally flawed” system, where some children are left sitting at the back of the classroom while others prepare for sacraments like Communion and Confirmation. Her remarks have reignited calls for a clearer separation between church and state in Irish education.

Ireland’s school system has long had strong religious roots, with many primary schools still under Catholic patronage. While some parents value this tradition, others argue it no longer reflects a modern, diverse society. Surveys in recent years have shown growing support among parents for more inclusive, multi-denominational or non-religious education options, particularly in urban areas.

So where should the line be drawn?

Should religion be removed entirely from public schools to ensure equality for all children?
Or does religion still have an important role in education and Irish identity?

Niall opens the phone lines to hear from listeners:

Do you agree with separating education and religion?
Should schools be fully secular?
Or are we at risk of losing something important?

📞 Join the conversation and have your say.