Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“I have been contacted by many members of the public who have expressed concern and alarm at the changes being bought into the post-primary RSE curriculum. TUV has already submitted a response to the consultation which can be accessed here.
“I have also been exploring matters arising from the consultation with the Department. Sadly, the responses give cause for concern. The Permanent Secretary has confirmed that there is a complete lack of statutory protection for teachers who object to teaching the revised curriculum. When challenged on how the ethos of schools is to be protected the answer was at best ambiguous.
“A careful reading of the consultation document shows that the Department suggests there is a need to “balance” parental and childrens’ rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Significantly, it excludes any reference to Article 14 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child which expressly says: “Governments must respect the rights and responsibilities of parents to guide their child as they grow up.” I am perturbed by the fact that when challenged about a specific issue touching upon this right the Permanent Secretary chose to ignore it. I have again written to Dr Browne seeking a response to direct question: Will, indeed does, the department accommodate a male child who wishes to be referred to by female pronouns and a female name in school when the parents object? Is the parental view secondary and to be overruled?”