michael d higgins to ban homework

President Michael D Higgins calls for homework to be banned in Ireland

The country’s favourite leader has given hope to a new generation of students that the bane of their afterschool evenings could be scrapped.

• 13:32, 20 JAN 2023
• Updated 14:54, 20 JAN 2023

President Michal D Higgins has called for homework to be banned.

President Higgins argues that this would make time for young people to engage in more creative pursuits outside school hours.

The former Arts Minister believes that school activities should end at the school gate.

He was speaking to RTE’s news2day current affairs and news programme for children on the occasion of the programme’s 20th birthday.

When asked what his opinion of homework President Higgins said: “I think myself, really that the time at home, and the time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things.”

To mark the show’s two decades on air, students from St Kevin’s National School, Littleton, County Tipperary put questions from RTÉ news2day viewers to President Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin.

In a wide-ranging interview, the children asked the President questions like, what was your favourite sport when you were in school?

When you were nine years old what did you want to be?

And when did you decide you wanted to be President?

The students also asked the President about his dogs, his official trips abroad, his favourite subject in school, differences between now and when he was a child and his favourite book. The President also spoke to the children about his love of handball and the importance of friendship in their lives.

RTÉ news2day will broadcast some of the President’s interview as part of Friday afternoon’s birthday celebrations at 4.20pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ News channel and the full interview will be available later on Friday evening on the RTÉ Player.

In a message to the children of Ireland and the viewers of RTÉ news2day, President Michael D. Higgins gave this advice: “To stay curious about everything and I think it’s important to make sure you don’t miss the joy of sharing information.

“And I think an important thing is friendship and to make sure that there’s no one left without friendship and that people belong. And we will all do individual things... but I think friendships that you make will in fact always be great memories and that is so important.

“And also have the courage to stand your own ground and let other children be allowed the space of standing their ground too because none of us are the same.

“We’re all unique but at the same time we have a lot going for us.”

President Higgins also encouraged the children of Ireland to speak the Irish language.

He encouraged them to speak Irish in a fun way and to feel free to use whatever bits of the language that they have.

Tributes flood in after sudden death of Dublin barman Jamie Boud at 21

Met Eireann issue new warning as bitterly cold front brings more snow before major U-turn

'He text me about show' - Operation Transformation leader friend dies suddenly

TD Holly Cairns installs CCTV at her home after stalker left her 'terrified'

Galway farmer accused of murdering aunt by driving over her in tractor

Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter

• Met Eireann
• President Higgins
• Most Recent

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels

Behind The Headlines

On the ground, decomplicated, you ask the questions, binge watch, travel smart.

• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Independent TV

Showing now | lifestyle.

Mary-Kate Findon | Saturday 21 January 2023 16:06 GMT

Irish president suggests schools should avoid setting children homework

Ireland's president has suggested that schools should avoid assigning children homework, leaving school at the gates.

Michael D Higgins shared his beliefs on the matter during a sit down with students that was broadcast on RTE.

"People should be able to use their time for other creative things," he told the children during his visit to Tipperary.

The 81-year-old also offered words of wisdom for the young people, urging them to "stay curious about everything."

Click here to sign up for our newsletters.

Kate Garraway reveals Derek Draper still receives bailiff threats

Paul Hollywood reveals which royals he’d welcome to Bake Off

The travel mistake that led to a $143,000 bill

Prince Harry makes surprise address during Travalyst annual meeting

Editor’s picks.

I traveled 300 miles to chase the total solar eclipse

Simon Calder answers your holiday questions in live event

What would a President Trump 2.0 look like?

Baltimore will rebuild, but at what cost? | On The Ground

New Yorkers turn to self-defence classes as punching attacks continue

Tom Walker: ‘Songwriting is my therapy’

Here’s why Greece is still a firm family summer holiday favourite

Author Ela Lee: ‘We need to take blackout sex more seriously’

This 26-year-old could be Biden’s secret weapon | On The Ground

The NHS nurse fighting to be heard | On The Ground

The temple at the heart of Narendra Modi’s re-election bid

Delhi’s worsening air pollution leaves sufferers across the city

The true cost of disposable vapes | On the Ground

Trapped in the care system

When will the Cost of Living Crisis end?

How airlines greenwash the skies

Is it time to panic over AI? | Behind The Headlines

My personal struggle amid the global fight for abortion rights

Non-doms, ghost-doms and tax loopholes of the elite

The fight for LGBT+ rights in Poland

The war in Ukraine | Behind The Headlines

Are ultra-processed foods bad for you?

Why are UK councils going bankrupt?

What causes the winter flu and how does it differ from other types?

How does the Iowa Caucus pick the next US president? | Decomplicated

Everything you need to know about the bedbug invasion | Decomplicated

What is Raac and why is it causing an issue in schools?

How does El Niño affect our weather? | Decomplicated

What are storm overflows? | Decomplicated

Oscars 2024: Who will win Best Actor and Actress?

Oscars 2024: Who will win Best Picture and Best Director?

Big Brother’s Jordan and Henry on life after the house

Baftas 2024: Best British film nominees you need to watch

Joel Edgerton: ‘I hope streaming doesn’t spell the end of cinema’

What TV and film to watch in 2024

The ultimate guide to the best Christmas film and TV | Binge Watch

Binge Watch live: Your guide to festive watching

Watch Gia Ford perform her brand new single ‘Poolside’ on Music Box

Gia Ford performs ‘Falling in Love Again’

Dylan John Thomas performs ‘Wake Up Ma’ on Music Box

Watch Dylan John Thomas perform his single ‘Fever’ on Music Box

Watch the beautiful performance of ‘the author’ by Luz on Music Box

Watch Irish singer Luz perform single ‘sustain’ on Music Box

Damian Lewis sings ‘Down On The Bowery’ for Music Box

Damian Lewis performs ‘Wanna Grow Old In Paris’ live on Music Box

Find your perfect seasonal city break

Discover the diverse appeals of Fuerteventura

Sunny holiday escapes no matter the time of year | Travel Smart

History and hiking to Antalya’s must-visit locations

Crusading knights and unparalleled sights on the coast of Türkiye

Lose yourself in Istanbul’s cultural oasis

Island life of adventure and discovery in Barbados | Travel Smart

Love Lives: If men went through menopause, it would be a disaster

Love Lives: Best moments from 2023

Tom Grennan: ‘I was an egotistical 21-year-old’

Tom Grennan: ‘I need to live like an athlete so I can perform’

Emma Forrest on the unseen romantic damage caused by Trump

Emma Forrest: ‘Trump’s election made me want to be celibate’

Kirstie Allsopp gives her tips for selling your home

How to avoid fast fashion this Christmas | You Ask The Questions

How do you get the best deal on Black Friday?

Has Rishi Sunak’s reshuffle changed the fate of his government?

Can Britain’s homeless crisis be solved?

What did we learn from the Labour and Conservative party conferences?

What does the four-tier EU membership possibly mean for the UK?

Is a four-day week a good idea? | You Ask The Questions

Grant Shapps clashes with Kay Burley over Mark Menzies sleaze scandal

Stunning Northern Lights shine over Iceland’s erupting volcano

Sydney shopping mall reopens five days after six killed in stabbing

Liz Truss calls on David Cameron to give Israel more support

Pregnant woman airlifted from Disney cruise ship in Atlantic Ocean

Jeremy Hunt refuses to say ‘anything negative’ about Liz Truss

Watch Michael Donovan’s police interview after Shannon Matthews kidnap

Boeing whistleblower reveals he has nightmares of being stabbed

Watch: YouTuber iShowSpeed ordered to stop filming at Man City game

Arteta: Arsenal’s Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich ‘painful’

Klopp urges Liverpool to evoke spirit of Barcelona comeback 5 years on

Man City ‘exceptional’ in Champions League exit, Guardiola says

England World Cup winner says rugby ‘not safe sport’ to play

Pochettino has spat with journalist following Chelsea press conference

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham demands more anti-racism measures

Conquering Bayern would be ‘unbelievable’ for Arsenal, Arteta says

Dubai: Cars abandoned in flooded streets as UAE begins clean up

Severe weather lashes Virginia as golf ball-sized hail reported

Watch: Double dust devil swirls along Route 66 highway

Octopuses could go blind due to global warming, researchers say

Commuters knocked off feet as quake earthquake rocks packed train

Large waterspout looms over Lisbon bridge in impressive footage

London Eye to go dark this weekend as part of Earth Hour

Olly Murs says ‘it’s horrible’ as he’s separated from newborn daughter

Zayn Malik reveals what he misses most about UK the most

First look at Heinz’s limited edition pink ‘Barbiecue’ sauce

Love Island star shaves head to support children’s charity

Jon Bon Jovi unsure if he will tour again after throat surgery

Spice Girls share throwback video on Victoria Beckham’s 50th birthday

Katy Perry reveals who she wants to replace her on American Idol

Watch: David Beckham marks Victoria’s 50th birthday with special video

Saudi Cup: ‘A true display of horsemanship’, says Prince Bandar

Princess Nourah praises young fashion designers on show at Saudi Cup

Andrew Strauss says Saudi is an eye opener

Saudi Arabia is ‘pushing limits’ of fashion creativity

Saudi Cup could become ‘the best race in the world’

Horseracing chiefs praise Saudi Cup

Saudi will become a ‘worldwide, year-long’ horseracing destination

Arabian horses ‘big part’ of global racing culture, says Damien Oliver

Galaxy the ripple effect.

Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE on the imposter syndrome epidemic

Finance coach Ellie Austin-Williams on the psychology of money

STEM campaigner Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE on workplace bias

Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE on how to tackle imposter syndrome

Simple ways to boost your money situation with Ellie Austin-Williams

Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon shares how to smash workplace stereotypes

E.on next power switch.

Episode One - Cooking

Episode Two - Entertainment

Episode Three - Body Care

Episode Four - Lighting

Big in america.

Can Willsow’s children’s books pique the interest of the US market?

Will the founders of Spice Kitchen be able to find US retailers?

Co-founders of See.Sense bring their cycle safe tech to New York City

Collctiv fintech founder Amy Whitell tries to crack the US tech market

The maritime tech guru taking high-speed ferries across the Atlantic

Saudi green initiative.

Saudi government doesn’t ‘pay lip service’ on climate action

SGI ‘seems like a nest of harmony’, journalist says

SGI ambitions are ‘extremely high’, says Saudi climate envoy

Saudi Green Initiative aims to ‘not just preserve, but create’

Expert explains how ‘blended finance’ can help achieve net zero

SGI can be a ‘catalyst’ for Saudi Arabia, head of SABB says

Kaust professor ‘inspired’ by Saudi efforts to save coral reefs

Watch in full: Day two of the Saudi Green Initiative Forum

Gérard Mestrallet on the challenges of bringing infrastructure to the region of AlUla

Sir George Iacobescu, chairman of the Canary Wharf Group on the investment into the historic region of AlUla

Oliver Ripley of sustainable hotel group Habitas talks about how AlUla challenged his preconceptions of Saudi Arabia

Thomas Kaplan of wild cat conservation charity Panthera on the mission to save the Arabian Leopard

How AlUla’s sustainability plan will stand the test of time - webinar

Discover AlUla: The Journey Through Time

AlUla Oasis View Trail

Stargazing Experience

The President Of Ireland Wants To Get Rid Of Homework & Honestly, He's Onto Something

“The time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school.”

Do you know who doesn’t like homework? Kids — and certain presidents. In an impassioned plea to the people of his nation, President Michael D. Higgins has called for a ban on homework across Ireland. And if small children were given the right to vote tomorrow, I feel fairly certain I know whose name they would be supporting on the ballot.

Higgins, who is himself a former Arts Minister of Ireland and therefore, in my opinion, knows a little about the subject, spoke to Ireland’s news program for kids RTE’s news2day at St. Kevin’s School in Tipperary about a number of subjects. What he wanted to be when he was a kid himself. What was his favorite sport in school, which he said was handball. When did he decide he wanted to be president. And then, the mutual bane of their existence — homework.

“I think myself, really that the time at home, and the time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things,” Higgins told his interviewers, four children hanging on his every word.

While it remains unclear if Higgins has begun any official paperwork to ban homework, which would ironically be homework for him, his sentiment resonated with his many fans. Children and social media users alike in fact. One person tweeted their appreciation of the fact that Higgins was “running his nation like the little Hobbit he is.”

Another social media user wondered if Higgins was really a “forest sprite.”

This social media user found the idea inspiring , writing, “We need a national conversation on how to bring more play, creativity, imagination, movement and positive experiences into our children’s lives. Banning homework would be a great first step.”

Higgins ended his interview with a message to children about the importance of fostering their friendships and telling them to “stay curious about everything and I think it’s important to make sure you don’t miss the joy of sharing information. And I think an important thing is friendship and to make sure that there’s no one left without friendship and that people belong. And we will all do individual things... but I think friendships that you make will in fact always be great memories and that is so important.”

I think he’s on to something.

President Michael D Higgins calls for school homework to be scrapped

President Michael D Higgins stopped by St Kevin's National School in Tipperary where the pupils interviewed him about his dogs, his time in school and his view on homework

• 15:01, 21 JAN 2023

Get the latest showbiz news and gossip every day by signing up to our FREE newsletter

We have more newsletters

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins has said he supports the scrapping of homework.

He addressed students of St Kevin's National School, Littleton, Co Tipperary, this week in an episode of RTE's news2day programme.

The President said that schoolwork should be completed in school time so children can use time after school to pursue more creative activities.

Read more: Ireland weather: Met Eireann pin point the end of the cold snap as temperatures skyrocket next week

“People should be able to use their time for other creative things,” he said.

"I think as much as possible that [homework] should happen in the school and I think it’s more relaxed than it used to be.”

He said that not all lessons are learned from books, but that the responsible use of phones is something that he hopes the younger generation will be acutely aware of.

The children of Ireland "have a great value of friendships" and this makes it even more tragic when there is an "abuse of phones for bullying", the President said.

The pupils were also curious about some of the other residents of Aras an Uachtaran - dogs Brod and Misneach.

"He's probably a very famous dog now," said President Higgins of Brod. "He will be 11 in February, which is a very good age for a Bernese Mountain dog and Bród is wonderful.

"He came here at six weeks old, so he's lived all of his life at the Áras..

As for Misneach, he said: "He came during Covid and because I couldn't collect him because of the ban on inter-county travel, he didn't come to me until he was five months old.

"He also didn't have a good journey here, so he's actually shy. He's a beautiful dog."

Get the latest RSVP headlines straight to your inbox for free by signing up to our newsletter

Social welfare Ireland: Major warning issued as payment dates change ahead of Bank Holiday

Louth nurse opens up about father's passing 10 days after cancer diagnosis

Stefanie Preissner felt enormous guilt after 5 devastating miscarriages in two years

Una Healy leaves fans 'mind blown' after capturing optical illusion photograph

Amy Huberman moved after young fan sends her sweet letter

• Most Recent

President Michael D Higgins says homework should be banned in Ireland

President Michael D Higgins has called for homework to be banned.

The country’s favourite leader has given hope to a new generation of students that the bane of their afterschool evenings could be scrapped. President Higgins argues that this would make time for young people to engage in more creative pursuits outside school hours.

The former Arts Minister believes that school activities should end at the school gate. He was speaking to RTE’s news2day current affairs and news programme for children on the occasion of the programme’s 20th birthday.

Read more: Children being 'corrupted' by drug dealing situation in Oliver Bond flats, Dail told

When asked what his opinion of homework President Higgins said: “I think myself, really that the time at home, and the time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things.”

To mark the show’s two decades on air, students from St Kevin’s National School, Littleton, County Tipperary put questions from RTÉ news2day viewers to President Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin. In a wide-ranging interview, the children asked the President questions like, what was your favourite sport when you were in school?

When you were nine years old what did you want to be? And when did you decide you wanted to be President?

The students also asked the President about his dogs, his official trips abroad, his favourite subject in school, differences between now and when he was a child and his favourite book. The President also spoke to the children about his love of handball and the importance of friendship in their lives.

RTÉ news2day will broadcast some of the President’s interview as part of Friday afternoon’s birthday celebrations at 4.20pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ News channel and the full interview will be available later on Friday evening on the RTÉ Player. In a message to the children of Ireland and the viewers of RTÉ news2day, President Michael D. Higgins gave this advice: “To stay curious about everything and I think it’s important to make sure you don’t miss the joy of sharing information.

“And I think an important thing is friendship and to make sure that there’s no one left without friendship and that people belong. And we will all do individual things... but I think friendships that you make will in fact always be great memories and that is so important. And also have the courage to stand your own ground and let other children be allowed the space of standing their ground too because none of us are the same.

“We’re all unique but at the same time we have a lot going for us.” President Higgins also encouraged the children of Ireland to speak the Irish language.

He encouraged them to speak Irish in a fun way and to feel free to use whatever bits of the language that they have.

Phone analysis expert says 'nothing to suggest' Jonathan Dowdall in park on alleged 'confession' date

Dermot Bannon says latest season of Room To Improve 'nearly killed him'

RTE Late Late Show viewers hail 'fantastic' Nell Mescal on singing debut

Temperatures soar across Dublin despite forecast of dreary weather

Gardai appeal for help in locating missing Dublin pensioner

Sign up to the Dublin Live Newsletter to get all the latest Dublin news straight to your inbox.

President of Ireland calls for homework to be banned

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins. (Source: Getty)

The President of Ireland has made his thoughts known about homework, saying it should be left at the gate and children should be able to use their leisure time for "creative things".

Speaking to RTE’s news2day - a current affairs and news programme for children, Michael D Higgins answered questions on a wide range of topics, the Irish Mirror reports .

When pressed on his views about homework Higgins said: “I think myself, really that the time at home, and the time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things.”

Higgins, a former arts minister, told children “to stay curious about everything and I think it’s important to make sure you don’t miss the joy of sharing information.

“And I think an important thing is friendship and to make sure that there’s no one left without friendship and that people belong. And we will all do individual things... but I think friendships that you make will in fact always be great memories and that is so important.

“And also have the courage to stand your own ground and let other children be allowed the space of standing their ground too because none of us are the same.

“We’re all unique but at the same time we have a lot going for us.”

Higgins also encouraged the children of Ireland to speak the Irish language.

While the role of president in Ireland is mainly a ceremonial one, it does have some sway over how the government operates.

More Stories

Poland's president visits Trump as allies eye possible return

Latest in a series of meetings with foreign leaders as Europe braces for the possibility of a second term for Donald Trump.

Hugh Grant accepts 'enormous' settlement from UK tabloid

The Sun was accused of unlawfully tapping his phone, bugging his car and breaking into his home to snoop on him.

'Great pride': French president hails Sydney bollard 'heroes'

Wednesday 3:50pm

Olympics flame lit at Greek cradle of ancient games

Wednesday 6:30am

Fire rages through 17th-century Old Stock Exchange in Copenhagen

Tue, Apr 16

Hannah Waddingham slams photographer: Don't say 'show a little leg'

Woolworths claims it's a 'model accused' over $1.1m staff pay bungle

Ram shot by police after couple die on rural Auckland property

Calls for NZ to step back from joining AUKUS security pact

Three Aucklanders arrested in worldwide phishing sting

Brazilian woman takes uncle's corpse to bank to sign loan

Too sick for school? Govt's new advice for assessing a sniffle

Wednesday 3:03pm

Hiccups in Solomon Is vote but results expected soon

Airport closes as Indonesians leave homes near erupting volcano

Bondi mall reopens in silence after 'sad and senseless' attack

Man charged with throwing pipe bomb at Satanic Temple In US

Renowned Kiwis open up about their personal mental health in new series

Sponsored by AIA NZ

More from Entertainment

Finalists for the 2024 Aotearoa Music Awards revealed

Stan Walker and Avantdale Bowling Club's Tom Scott are leading the nominations.

Why are concert tickets so expensive?

Wednesday 8:32pm

Ne-Yo to play one-off show in New Zealand

Mon, Apr 15

'Most magical place on earth': SZA praises NZ at sold-out show

Sun, Apr 14

'I love this country' - Momoa pays tribute to NZ as filming wraps

Sat, Apr 13

• 2022 City Budget
• 2022 Municipal Election
• Arts & Music
• Entertainment
• Food & Drink
• Peel Region
• Real Estate
• Things To Do
• Restaurants
• Polls (New)
• Sign in / Join
• Bramptonist Team

Sheridan College Named Adobe Creative Campus

$2.5M Wetland Enhancements Coming to Brampton

Peel Region And 3 Brampton Based Companies Clinch Spots on Forbes’ Best Employers List

Family Friendly March Break Extravaganza at PAMA

Restaurant Review: Copper Branch

Restaurant Review: Pos Bueno Mexican Restaurant and Bar

Restaurant Review: Onyxx Sports Bar and Grill

Restaurant Review: Honest Restaurant

Restaurant Review: Green Bites Dumpling & Tea Bar

Ireland’s President Higgins calls for an end to homework, encourages creativity and meaningful friendships instead

Pushes for education beyond the classroom, emphasizes language learning and self-expression ..

January 24, 2023 – Ireland’s President Michael Higgins is calling for an end to homework.

When pressed on his views during an interview with RTE’s news2day – a current affairs and news program for children, Higgins said: “ I think myself, really that the time at home, and the time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things. ”

He also added “ I think it’s important to make sure you don’t miss the joy of sharing information. And I think an important thing is friendship and to make sure that there’s no one left without friendship and that people belong. And we will all do individual things… but I think friendships that you make will in fact always be great memories and that is so important. And also have the courage to stand your own ground and let other children be allowed the space of standing their ground too because none of us are the same. We’re all unique but at the same time we have a lot going for us .”

Furthermore, Higgins encouraged the children of Ireland to speak the Irish language.

While the role of president in Ireland is mainly a ceremonial one, it does have some sway over how the government operates.

Even though it remains unclear if Higgins has begun any official paperwork to ban homework, which would irony be homework for him, his sentiment resonated with his many fans.

Homework banned in Ireland? Are my student dreams coming true? According to IrishMirror, President Michael D Higgins has called for homework to be banned as he thinks students can engage in more creative pursuits outside school hours. pic.twitter.com/MLfXlAzAhN — Nare (@Nare33242443) January 24, 2023

President Higgins calls for homework to be banned. It’s such a pity the *head of state* has no actual power on matters. This is such a smart and wise idea. The usual brigade will be out against this, but its the right thing to do for young people https://t.co/Qub7fJnTAA — Dylan (@dylancongolf) January 20, 2023

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Prevent Strokes: Expert Insights and Tips from Dr. Douen at Osler Health System

Meet Your Potential Furry Friends at Brampton Animal Services Shelter

Brampton Teacher Zeda Ali Going to the JUNO Awards

Samantha Baker: A Healthcare Hero’s Journey at Osler

Brampton’s Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser Sets Record

The Best And Worst Places To Take Your G2 And G Tests

25 Places That Will Give You Free Food on Your Birthday

Brampton’s First Youth Shelter is Finally Opening its Doors

Popular category.

• instagram 897
• Arts & Music 371
• Things To Do 365
• Politics 352
• Food & Drink 316
• Entertainment 211
• The New Bramptonist Team: The Voice of Brampton
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• Data tracker

Students and parents plead case for homework ban

School children and parents pleaded with the Minister for Education Norma Foley to step in and introduce a homework ban.

In letters to the minister, kids wrote about how they were being forced to give up hobbies because they were given so much work to do after school.

The correspondence followed comments by President Michael D Higgins in January that a ban on homework should be considered.

In one letter, a school child wrote about how seven hours of school each day was “plenty of education” and that more work on top was unnecessary.

“I do not ask for homework to be completely banned but for it to be reduced to a certain limit. Otherwise, if there is a constant build-up of homework daily, it can cause stress and even a lack of exercise which will affect a person’s well-being.”

Another said they felt homework was a “waste of time” and that a ban should be introduced.

They wrote: “Kids should be doing more creative things with their time after school. Many kids have had to stop doing hobbies they have because of it.

“It is a burden to parents, kids, and teachers [and] so for the above reasons, I think you should BAN HOMEWORK!”

Homework annoys teachers

One hand-written letter, decorated with a Minnie Mouse bow, said homework was “annoying for teachers and pupils”.

“I play soccer and love writing stories, but because of homework, I have no time for doing these things. For teachers, it gives them more copies to correct and they have to go through the trouble of deciding what [homework] to give.”

A secondary school student said that if “sleeping isn’t for school” then “work isn’t for home”.

They explained how they did between one and two hours of homework every evening after school and sometimes more.

“When I would finish, there would be barely any time for me to relax before I had to go to bed to get enough sleep to get up in the morning,” said their letter.

“As I’m sure you’re aware, our president Michael D Higgins also thinks that homework should be banned so if you don’t want to listen to me, listen to our President.”

Another suggested there could at least be a compromise so that students would not be given homework for over the weekend.

“[This would relieve] students of mental stress,” they said.

Help parents

One young student said they were left with no time to help their parents, or to learn how to cook or do other activities around the house.

They said: “We all do activities like swimming, dance, and all other sports. It’s hard work and it’s stressful and it’s unfair.”

A single parent also wrote in to explain how one of their children was getting two hours of written homework every day.

They said: “We need time to teach them life skills such as sewing, cooking, how to work the washing machine, change their own bed sheets and personal care.

“These teachings are very hard for parents with zero [time] left in the evenings. There is no time for them to spend with siblings and parents because they are so tired.”

In responses, the Department of Education told the letter writers that homework policy was not within its powers.

In emails, they said: “The Department does not issue direct guidelines relating to homework being given in schools. It is a matter for each school, at local level, to arrive at its own homework policy.

“In keeping with good practice, the process of drafting a homework policy should involve consultation with teachers, parents, and students.

“However, the Department does acknowledge that homework can play an important part in helping pupils prepare for forthcoming class work and in reinforcing work already covered during class time.”

• Education ,
• Norma Foley ,
• President Michael D Higgins ,
• Minister for Education ,
• homework ban

Live: Jury in Stardust inquest returns verdicts of unlawful killing for 48 victims

GRA disappointed over McEntee's refusal to attend annual conference

Micheál Martin told Government plan for affordable housing ‘not working’

Funding shortfall ‘blockage’ for redevelopment of Casement as Euros venue: Lyons

Message submitting... Thank you for waiting.

Want us to email you top stories each lunch time?

Neutrality debates and the President: What is behind Michael D Higgins’s criticism?

President questions role of forum chairwoman, saying ‘there were a few candidates i could have come up with myself’.

Mr Higgins’s remarks show neutrality is a heated question. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill

Political debate on neutrality has sharpened after President Michael D Higgins claimed Ireland was in a dangerous foreign policy “drift”. The President’s remarks come in advance of a Government forum on international security, starting this week.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, was quick to defend the forum, saying it would be wrong to shy away from assessing defence policy or to examine it only in private. But Mr Higgins’s remarks show neutrality is a heated question, with disagreement inevitable as the future of the policy comes under scrutiny.

What is the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy?

The forum is a series of public meetings taking place in Cork, Galway and Dublin with the aim of prompting national discussion on foreign, security and defence policy. Such questions have come to the fore in politics since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine brought war back to Europe, triggering huge western interventions to shore up Kyiv’s defence against Vladimir Putin’s forces. Although the Government insists there is no plan to change Ireland’s military neutrality, it says discussion is necessary on the future evolution of the policy because of the altered security environment.

What exactly will the forum examine?

The forum will assess triple-lock mechanism for Defence Forces deployments outside the State, with Government, Dáil and UN approval required for any large missions. Ireland’s engagement with EU security and defence policy will be examined. So too will be the State’s links with Nato via the Partnership for Peace, a programme that connects non-aligned countries such as Ireland with the alliance.

Ireland ‘scrutinising’ Russian diplomats’ visa applications amid spying concerns

Varadkar attends ‘Davos for Defence’ for first time to discuss neutrality and push for Gaza ceasefire

Legislation to get rid of triple lock being drawn up ‘without delay’, Tánaiste tells Dáil

‘An offhand comment’: Louise Richardson on the President’s broadside in the neutrality debate

These are often contentious topics. Still, the Government says it does not aim to frame the discussion on the “binary issue” of neutrality or the question of Nato membership. There will be discussions also on cyber security, disinformation, threats to critical infrastructure and hybrid threats, which are actions to harm targets by combining overt and covert military and non-military groups.

Mr Higgins is not impressed?

Certainly not. Interviewed in the Business Post, the President said the State was “playing with fire” because of drift in foreign policy, saying leaders should avoid “burying ourselves in other people’s agendas” as policy is reviewed. Ireland should avoid the “strutting and chest-thumping” of people promoting a “hold-me-back version of Irish neutrality” who want the State to “march at the front of the band” into alliances such as Nato, the President said. “The most dangerous moment in the articulation and formulation of foreign policy and its practice, since the origin of diplomacy, has been when you’re drifting and not knowing what you’re doing,” he added. “I would describe our present position as one of drift.”

What else did the President say?

Mr Higgins questioned in blunt terms the role of forum chairwoman, Louise Richardson, the Irish academic who was previously vice-chancellor of the University of Oxford. She is now president of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the $4.7 billion philanthropic foundation established in 1911. The President said Ms Richardson comes to the forum “with a very large DBE – Dame of the British Empire”. He added: “I think it’s grand but, you know, I think that there were a few candidates I could have come up with myself.” Asked for Ms Richardson’s response to such remarks, the Carnegie Corporation referred questions to the Department of Foreign Affairs. The Department provided a statement from Mr Martin which did not address the President’s comments about the chairwoman.

What did the President say about forum panels?

He said they were mostly made up of “the admirals, the generals, the air force, the rest of it” and “the formerly neutral countries who are now joining Nato”.

What did the Tánaiste say?

Defending the forum, Mr Martin said panellists were from “a wide range of backgrounds and with a variety of expertise and experience, including in peacekeeping, peacebuilding, arms control and disarmament and conflict resolution internationally”. He cited the Government’s “fundamental duty” to address the global situation as it is. “Political leadership means taking on the responsibility of putting in place policies and practices to keep this country, and its people, safe and secure.”

Previously, Mr Martin questioned whether the triple-lock was “fit for purpose” and said the UN Security Council veto should be assessed. The Security Council has not approved a new peacekeeping mission since 2014. “The increasing use of the veto is limiting the council’s ability to fulfil its mandate for the maintenance of international peace and security,” Mr Martin said. “The forum needs to examine what this means for Ireland’s ability to pursue an independent foreign policy, including the implications for the triple lock.”

[  Tánaiste strongly defends neutrality debates following criticism by President  ]

What has Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said?

Warning of heightened risks to subsea telecommunications cables and the electricity grid, Mr Varadkar has raised the prospect of the Government joining Nato or EU programmes to protect critical infrastructure from attack. “No matter how much we spent on our Defence Forces or our Navy, we wouldn’t be able to do this on our own. So, we do need to co-operate,” Mr Varadkar said this month. “That means co-operating potentially with Nato allies through the Partnership for Peace, which we’ve been members of for over 20 years now, or through the EU’s Pesco arrangement, which is the EU’s structured co-operation on defence and security.”

What has the Opposition said?

Sinn Féin has dismissed the forum as a “blatant attempt to undermine Irish neutrality”. The party’s foreign affairs spokesman, Matt Carthy, said the Government “handpicked group of European military experts and academics leading with a conversation to get the outcome that Fine Gael want which is an entire dismantling of neutrality”. People Before Profit TD Mick Barry said the objective was “to soften Irish public opinion for in­creased military spending, military co-operation with imperial powers and de facto associate membership of Nato”. In testy Dáil exchanges last week over the forum, Mr Martin withdrew claims that People Before Profit TDs would “put the jackboot on people” with different views to them if they were ever in authority.

What happens next?

Almost 900 people have registered to attend the meetings. The Government insists there are no predetermined or preconceived outcomes. Ms Richardson will produce a report after the discussions. The Tánaiste will consider that report and decide whether to bring recommendations to Government.

IN THIS SECTION

‘make no mistake and remember, the stardust changed every person it touched’: witness testimony was startling and distressing, stardust families were better resourced and more involved in latest inquests, ‘jesus christ, the doors are locked’: the full story of the stardust fire, with new testimony, tributes paid to veteran rté broadcaster and producer alf mccarthy, man accused of threatening to kill woman remanded in continuing custody, woman living ‘exotic’ lifestyle given four months to vacate home bought with crime proceeds, family affairs: how ireland’s newly rich are putting money to work in secretive firms, university changes gender identity policy that said refusal to use pronouns was ‘unlawful’, ex-eirgrid chief faces court action over ‘driving under influence of intoxicant’, stardust inquests: unlawful killing verdict returned by jury in each of the 48 deaths in nightclub fire, latest stories, man found guilty of dangerous driving causing death of gaa commentator paudie palmer, fa cup replays and premier league winter break scrapped from next season.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Information
• Cookie Settings
• Community Standards

Banning homework: Taoiseach says schoolchildren get too much homework but doesn't call for ban

Varadkar said he'd have to speak to Minister for Education, Norma Foley, about the matter

• 15:07, 30 JAN 2023
• Updated 13:12, 20 JUL 2023

Stay on top of the latest issues at home and abroad by signing up to our FREE daily newsletter

We have more newsletters

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he will talk to Minister for Education, Norma Foley, on the issue of getting rid of homework.

Varadkar on homework

While Varadkar didn't say he supported call to ban homework for schoolchildren, he did tell Newstalk that he felt some children get "too much" homework.

Asked about the homework debate today, Varadkar said he'd have to speak to Foley about it.

"We haven't had a chance to discuss it," he said.

Varadkar added that he "definitely" think kids have "too much homework".

"You could have a long day in class, get home in the early evening and then face three hours of homework.

"I remember that when I was a kid, staying up very late to do homework.

"I think there's definitely a place for homework but we need to make sure that there isn't too much of it."

The debate was sparked by President Michael D Higgins saying he was in favour of getting rid of homework.

Support for banning homework

Speaking on RTÉ last week, Higgins argued that getting rid of homework would allow young people more time to engage in creative pursuits outside of school hours.

The president was asked for his thoughts on homework and responded that he wasn't in favour of it.

"I think myself, really that the time at home, and the time in the school is an educational experience and it should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things."

When Varadkar was asked if he minded Higgins making a public comment on homework, the Taoiseach responded that the president's comments are "always welcome".

School policy on homework

Minister for Education, Norma Foley, has said she won't debate the homework ban issue with President Michael D Higgins.

A little over a week ago, Higgins told the nation's children that he was against schoolwork continuing beyond the school gates, in an address broadcast on RTÉ's news2day.

Foley said it was up to schools to decide on their homework policy.

She told The Irish Mirror that she wasn't going to get into it with the president.

"It would not be appropriate for a government minister to engage in public debate with the office of the president," she said.

"Currently schools are free to have their own policy on homework and these policies are created in conjunction with senior management and staff, the boards of management, parents and the pupils.

"Schools are in of themselves places where creative pursuits are cultivated, nurtured and encouraged and that creativity may also be reflected in homework."

In a recent poll, it was revealed that Irish Mirror readers were overwhelmingly in favour of banning homework, with 98 per cent of readers voting in favour of a ban.

In a landslide decision, 57,440 readers voted yes, while just 1,211 voted no.

Benefits of homework

Minister Foley recently said that her department doesn't "issue any guidelines relating to homework being given in schools.

"It is a matter for each school, at local level, to arrive at its own homework policy".

It followed a question from Fine Gael's Neale Richmond who asked if research has been carried out by her department into the benefits of ending the provision of homework for primary school pupils.

He told The Irish Mirror that children should be involved in conversations about their schools homework policy.

Minister Richmond said: "I submitted the Parliamentary Question following a visit to one of my local primary schools.

"The pupils were genuinely interested in the policy relating to homework going forward and I agreed it's an important discussion to involve pupils in."

Foley told her government colleague that the Department of Education has not commissioned research on the matter.

To keep up to date with all the latest Irish environment and international climate news sign up to our bi-weekly newsletter

READ NEXT - The environmental wins and losses of 2022

READ NEXT - The top political stories in Ireland in 2022

• In the News
• Leo Varadkar
• Michael D Higgins
• Norma Foley
• Most Recent

POLL — Should homework be banned?

Tell us what you think.

Do I have homework tonight?

That’s the question on many kids’ minds when the school bell rings at the end of the day.

This week, the topic of homework made headlines in Ireland when President Michael D. Higgins was interviewed by students on the national public broadcaster, RTE.

When asked his thoughts on homework, Higgins replied: “It should get finished at the school and people should be able to use their time for other creative things.”

Soon after, some media outlets in Ireland published headlines saying that Higgins called for a ban on homework.

Although a ban isn’t coming anytime soon, it got us thinking:

• How much homework do you have?
• Would you want homework to be banned?
• What about the benefits of homework?

Sound off, telling us how you feel about homework.

Have more questions? Want to tell us how we're doing? Use the “send us feedback” link below. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

TOP IMAGE CREDIT: Mark Humphrey/The Associated Press

Was this story worth reading?

More stories you might like.