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RSE Curriculum: Northern Ireland Schools
12 September 2023
Lead MP
Carla Lockhart
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Northern Ireland
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Carla Lockhart raised concerns about rse curriculum: northern ireland schools in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Carla Lockhart expressed her opposition to the proposed changes in RSE regulations for post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, emphasising concerns over lack of consultation and potential ideological bias. She highlighted fears among parents and teachers about the teaching of contraception and abortion, arguing that such education should remain a matter for parents rather than schools. The MP also called for greater flexibility for school governors to uphold their ethos and protect conscientious objections by teachers.
He thanked Carla Lockhart for raising the issue and noted that while the Secretary of State was unable to attend, he would respond. He acknowledged the sensitivity of RSE education and stated that the Government acted due to a statutory duty imposed by Parliament.
He suggested that the Minister should have apologised for not being present throughout the entire debate.
His intervention was brief and stated he would make a short point.
Government Response
The Minister responded by outlining the Government's actions to implement sexual and reproductive health education in Northern Ireland, citing the statutory duty imposed by Parliament. She emphasised that this action was taken due to the lack of progress from the Department of Education in Northern Ireland, despite opportunities given to them. The Minister assured that guidance will be issued by 1 January 2024 and that parents can opt their children out of RSE education if they wish. She also mentioned that teacher opt-outs would be a matter for the Department of Education in Northern Ireland, as it has overall responsibility for education there.
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House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.