As it stands, primary schools spend roughly two to three hours on religious education per week but that could change if new proposals are passed.
The State’s advisory body on the curriculum is currently considering cutting the number of hours spent teaching religion in classrooms.
The changes would mean that schools will have to focus on State-backed curriculum subjects such as Maths, Irish and English.
Another point in the proposal is that to introduce a new subject that teaches students about world religions and ethics.
The plan is likely to cause quite the debate between school principals and religious groups.
It is expecting that principals will be glad to see the curriculum lightened to make space in students’ timetables.
A spokesperson from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment said in a brief statement:
“We are due to advise the Minister for Education on time allocation for subjects.
“We are still developing those proposals, which are due in the autumn.”
Currently, the Education Act (1998) defends the schools right to choose the length of time they wish to dedicate to subjects like religion.
The introduction of the new world religions and ethics would be taught separately to faith-based classes and would cover areas such as major forms of religion, traditions and worldviews.
The hope is that a class like this will encourage children to develop empathy with people from different religions and beliefs.
