Limerick student allowed opt out of religious class at father’s request

The board of management at a secondary school has agreed to allow a first-year student opt out of religious education.

The decision was made at a meeting of the board of management at Castletroy College, Limerick, where it considered a request by Paul Drury on behalf of his daughter.

His daughter is a first-year student at Castletroy College, which is under the patronage of the Catholic Bishop of Limerick Brendan Leahy.

Mr Drury, who moved to this country from England, said his family and his daughter did not wish her to continue with the course on religion. While the course is mainly Christian-focused, it includes a widely based religious education.

Mr Drury said when he approached the school principal, Padraig Flanagan, he was told it was not possible for his daughter to discontinue with religious education classes.

The Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan said guidelines allow parents to take a child out of religious education classes.

Ms O’Sullivan said: “I understand the board of management are due to meet this evening. I have had some discussions with those directly involved and I believe the issue will be dealt with today.

“In general, there is the right of parents to take children out of religious education and if there is any more clarity to be given we will give it, but certainly I would be confident there are clear guidelines with regard to these issues. I understand the school will be communicating with the parents immediately after the board of management meeting.

“I do hope parents do know their rights, and they should approach the school if they wish to have their child exempt from religious eduction. Normally that is done first through the principal and, if necessay, through the board of managment.”

The minister said it is the right of parents to decide if a child should not attend religious education.