"Trans people exist, they've always existed"
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar says it makes sense to teach children about transgender people.
His comments come after many parents slammed plans to introduce gender identity lessons in schools.
Varadkar stressed that teaching children, at both primary and secondary levels, about the trans community is vital.
According to RTÉ, he said these classes will help teach children about the world.
"The purpose of the education system is to prepare children for life, to teach them about the world,” Varadkar said.
“Trans people exist, they’ve always existed.
"I think it makes more sense in schools to just inform children about the world around them.
“It doesn’t have to be a value judgment about whether it’s right or wrong but it just makes sense to me that education is about teaching children about the real world and trans people exist in the real world.
“Why not just give them information and facts?" he suggested.
He continued, "It doesn’t have to be a value judgment in either direction to challenge anyone’s personal or religious opinions.”
"Ultimately parents are responsible for their children and know what’s best for their kids."
Despite the backlash, many parents support plans to introduce lessons about the trans community.
What do you think?
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