An Upper Bann MP has said she will “stand firm” following a unanimous Supreme Court ruling that the Christian-based RE taught in NI primary schools is unlawful.
The ruling follows a legal challenge by an unnamed father and daughter who argued pupils were effectively being taught that Christianity was “absolute truth”, without a balanced presentation of other beliefs.
Their solicitor described the judgement as “a watershed moment”, saying every child is entitled to an education that respects their freedom of thought and religion.
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart was at the Supreme Court today (November 19) as judgment was handed down.
In reaction to the court’s decision, Carla Lockhart MP said: “Let me be absolutely clear – this judgment is a serious and deeply unwelcome development for those of us who value the Christian foundations of our schools.
“For decades, Christian teaching has shaped the moral character of young people in Northern Ireland, instilling respect, responsibility and a strong sense of right and wrong. That legacy is not something I will allow to be eroded by courtroom decision or ideological pressure.
“There are people who would happily strip every trace of Christian ethos from our education system. I will oppose that at every step.
“Parents have always had the right to opt out. What they have not asked for is the dismantling of the ethos that has served our children and our society so well.
“I am pleased that in Northern Ireland we have a commitment from the Education Minister to help protect Christian values and teaching in schools.
“I will be working urgently with the Education Minister to ensure that Christian assemblies, faith-based teaching and the values that define our schools are protected.
“This judgment may pose a challenge, but it will not weaken my resolve. I will stand firm, and I will stand up for the Christian ethos in our schools.”
