Irish parents call for multi-faith schools

Most Irish parents would prefer their children to attend state-run multi faith schools as opposed to church-run schools, according to a new survey from the Irish Primary Principals Network.

As part of the Red C survey, over 300 parents with children aged under 15 years were asked a series of questions regarding religion in primary schools.

Parents were asked whether they would prefer a school managed by and promoting the faith of a particular religion, or a school managed by the state with equal status and opportunity for all religions.

The results of the survey showed that parents voted three-to-one in favor of the state option.

The survey also showed that parents wanted less time spent on learning religion and more time on activities such as physical education.

In Ireland currently, two-and-a-half hours each week are devoted to teaching religion.