Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath is seeking a Statement from Education Minister Norma Foley and the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) in respect of content in a textbook intended for use by first year students in Secondary School. The textbook was related to the SPHE subject which stands for Social, Personal, Health Education which aims to help young people develop life skills.
The text book featured descriptions of two typical Irish Families to highlight the issue of diversity. One family was described as always eating bacon and cabbage, playing traditional music instruments, never playing “foreign games” or mixing with other religions or cultures. The family also are all shown wearing Aran jumpers and as having red hair.
The publisher yesterday apologised for the content and says it will be withdrawn.
Deputy McGrath says he welcomes the apology but adds that it falls far short of addressing the core issue. The TD wants Minister Norma Foley to clarify how such a textbook, which not only misrepresents Irish families but does so in what he calls a “prejudiced manner”, was approved for publication in the first place.
