09/06/2008

Nearly Half Support The Wearing Of Headscarves In Schools

Almost half of the Irish public think the wearing of headscarves by Muslim students should be allowed in state schools, according to an opinion poll published in the 'Irish Times' today.

According to the TNS/MRBI poll, 48% agree that they should be worn in state schools, 39% do not agree and 13% do not have any opinion.

Support was very high among Green Party and Sinn Fein voters, and more women showed their support (55%) compared with men (42%).

Irish Minister for Education, Batt O'Keeffe has said that the government will consider whether to issue guidelines on the wearing of the hijab in schools when it drafts an intercultural education strategy later this year.

(CD/KMcA)


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