It is appropriate that we have some young students in the Visitors Gallery this morning. They are very welcome. I understand we have had numerous references to religion, politics and education this morning. I welcome the announcement made today by the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, that she will repeal Rule 68 in the Department's rules for national schools.

The Senator can welcome it all he likes, but I do not have to agree with it. What is his point?

Senator Eamonn Coghlan should be allowed to speak without interruption.

The document dates back some 50 years.

It is quite a long time. This rule states religious education is by far the most important part of the school curriculum. Currently, children spend 30 minutes per day, or two and a half hours per week, studying religion, which is incredible when one compares it with some other core subjects. Pupils engage in physical education for less than one hour per week. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment is reviewing the national school curriculum, with recommendations to be published some time next year. I call on the Minister to ensure the time allocated to physical education is increased and that the manner in which it is delivered changed in line with the Points for Life initiative that was introduced in the Seanad and delivered in a pilot programme in 2013 and 2014 under the guidance of the Professional Development Service for Teachers. It is not just me who is requesting this. There are teachers, parents, coaches and many people in the community who unanimously agree that it should be done. We all know about the value and importance of physical education in a child's development and overall well-being. It is now time to do something about it and this is the way we can go forward. I call for a debate on the issue at some time in the near future.