Islamic Dress Code Should Be Accommodated in Irish Schools
The Irish Muslim Board has also called for school uniforms which have crucifix symbols or images of saints to be made optional in the interests of creating greater inclusivity.
The recommendations are contained in the board’s submission to a Department of Education consultation process over school admission policies.
The group, chaired by Dr Ali Selim, was formed in 2016 to encourage Muslims to become more politically active.
While there are two Muslim primary schools in Dublin, the community does not have a secondary school.
In its submission, the group says Muslim children can feel alienated at school, particularly in activities that revolve around Christmas such as nativity plays and carol services.
It recommends that schools should take greater steps to include Muslims, such as accommodating the “Islamic religiously mandated code of dressing, deemed to be an essential component of their Muslim identity”.
Source: The Irish Times
