The 2011 "Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector" presented Ireland with an opportunity to rethink the issue of patronage in Irish primary schools, as well as to consider how "religious education" might be approached in such schools in the future. This paper suggests that, for the first time since 1831, Ireland had an opportunity to provide "state schooling" for all children, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof. The paper proposes educating "all" children in the state in non-denominational secular settings, leaving faith formation to the private domain of parents and communities. Although the concept of "secularism" has negative connotations for those who belong to a religious community, this paper suggests that it provides a framework for inclusive and egalitarian education, offering children and young people the opportunity to learn alongside their peers, irrespective of religious backgrounds.