Banning of hijab in schools ‘could damage’ Ireland’s image

THE banning of religious symbols such as the Muslim hijab headscarf in schools could damage Ireland’s international image, the Government’s anti-racism agency has warned.

The issue has been the subject of recent public debate, prompting Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe to indicate that schools could be issued with guidelines on the question later this year.

However, the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI) says it has not been a thorny issue for schools up to now. It points out that most second level schools have adopted a pragmatic and negotiated policy of allowing the hijab to be worn by Muslim girls, as long as the colour is consistent with the uniform.