§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by the Lord President on 15 December 2004 (WA 84 ) concerning the exclusive employment of Roman Catholic teachers in Roman Catholic schools, how this exemption from the European Equal Treatment Directive furthers reconciliation of historical differences on religions. [HL729]
§ Baroness AmosThe schools sector in Northern Ireland reflects parental choice with children attending controlled schools (mainly Protestant pupils), maintained schools (mainly Catholic pupils), integrated schools and Irish medium schools. The exemption in relation to the recruitment of teachers recognises the complexion of these schools including the developing integrated sector.
The exemption does not affect the responsibility of all teachers (including those in a school where the teachers and pupils are predominantly of one religion) to prepare children to live in a shared society where differences are respected.
The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland in 2003 conducted an investigation under Article 71 of the Fair Employment & Treatment (NI) Order 1998 in fulfilment of its duty to keep under review the exemption of teachers from the legislation and will be publishing the outcome of that investigation which the Government will be considering. The Government also invited views on the exemption in their recent consultation on the single Equality Bill for Northern Ireland, responses to which are currently being analysed.