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A Sinn Féin TD says that the national anthem is an 'expression of national identity' Alamy Stock Photo
Amhrán na bhFiann
Should all schools in Ireland teach the national anthem?
Teaching Ireland’s national anthem in schools is currently at the discretion of teachers at both primary and secondary level.
SINN FÉIN’S CONOR D McGuinness TD has called for Amhrán na bhFiann, Ireland’s national anthem, to be a mandatory part of the school curriculum.
The party’s Rural Affairs spokesperson has described the exclusion of the national anthem in schools as “shameful” and an “undermining of Ireland’s republican heritage”.
In response to a Parliamentary Question from McGuinness, Minister for Education Helen McEntee confirmed that it is not compulsory for schools to teach students the words to Amhrán na bhFiann. Instead, it is left to individual teachers to decide whether or not to teach it.
So, tell us what you think: Should all schools in Ireland teach the national anthem?
Poll Results:
Yes (10291)
No (962)
Unsure (275)
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