A law change which would strip all religious influence from sex education classes has moved a step closer.
Fianna Fail had threatened to vote against the bill, which promises students factual information on relationships and sexuality regardless of a school’s ethos.
It would also mean pupils would be be taught about consent, different types of sexuality and gender, contraception and abortion.
The Deputy Ceann Comhairle Pat the Cope Gallagher explained that the bill will now be debated by the Education Committee.
"As this is a private member's bill, it must be referred to the select committee... does the Deputies wish to refer this now?"
To which TDs present agreed.
