In this episode of ‘If I Were the Minister for Education,’ I explore the recent survey conducted by the Irish Department of Education concerning primary school patronage. I also discuss the legacy left by former Minister Helen McEntee and give my initial thoughts on the new Minister Hildegarde Naughton. I raise questions about the survey’s efficacy, its democratic value, and its alignment with the constitutional rights of children. I provide a historical context on the secular roots of Irish primary education and argue for state-run, multi-denominational schools. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:31 A New Minister for Education01:37 Legacy of Helen McEntee02:30 The Primary School Ethos Survey03:53 Survey Questions and Parental Choices06:25 Critique of the Survey’s Purpose09:08 Human Rights and Education23:52 Historical Context of Religious Schools26:25 Conclusion: The Need for Genuine Reform This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit simonmlewis.substack.com/subscribe

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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