A father has "welcomed" a decision by his daughter's secondary school to allow her to opt out of religion class, but she must remain in the class under supervision while the subject is taught.

Paul Drury, originally from England but living in Limerick, had a request - for his daughter to opt out of religion class at Castletroy College - rejected by the school last week.

However, following intervention by the Minister for Education today, who reminded parents they had a legal right to have their children not be taught religion in school, the decision was reversed following a meeting of the school's board of management tonight.

The board's decision takes immediate effect.

Earleir today the Education Minister said parents have the right to say they do not want their children to study religion in school

Jan O'Sullivan was speaking after news of the original decision at Castleroy College had emerged.