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Mulcahy said that many children leave primary school not knowing the words or history of the national anthem Alamy Stock Photo
The Daily Poll
Should the national anthem be mandatory in primary schools?
A Sinn Féin councillor has called for Amhrán na bhFiann to be taught in all primary schools.
SINN FÉIN COUNCILLOR Donnachadh Mulcahy has called for Amhrán na bhFiann to be made a mandatory part of the primary school curriculum.
Mulcahy, alongside a number of other Waterford councillors, last week unanimously passed a motion calling on the Education Minister to look at the introduction of the national anthem into the school curriculum.
Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast, Mulcahy said he put forward the motion to ensure children understand “the words, the meaning and the appropriate performance” of the song.
“I don’t see it as a political thing. It’s about understanding our national symbols as part of a civic education,” he added.
It is currently not compulsory to teach Amhrán na bhFiann in Irish primary schools, with individual teachers deciding whether to include it in their lessons.
So, today we’re asking: Do you think the national anthem should be mandatory in primary schools?
Poll Results:
Yes (6546)
No (2082)
Not sure/No opinion (332)
have your say