A Sinn Féin TD has called for the national anthem to be included on the school curriculum.
Conor D McGuinness said it was "shameful" and "outrageous" that it is not mandatory to teach Amhrán na bhFiann in primary or secondary schools.
He said it is a "clear sign of how little respect this Government has for Ireland's republican heritage".
In a statement, Deputy McGuinness said the national anthem is taught in many schools "because teachers choose to include it".
"It is not guaranteed," he said.
He added that Amhrán na bhFiann is a "basic expression of national identity and civic belonging".
Not on primary school history curriculum
In response, the Department of Education acknowledged that the current primary school curriculum for history does not "specifically mention the national anthem".
However, it said frameworks provide "clear pathways" for schools to include Amhrán na bhFiann as part of "broader learning about Irish history and identity".
It said it is a matter for each school to decide to teach the song as part of its programmes.
The department said schools can choose to teach the song as part of some strand units.
There are also opportunities for teachers to include the song in history, Irish and music classes at post-primary level.
"The Department recognises the importance of national symbols, including Amhrán na bhFiann, as valuable educational tools for fostering civic pride and historical awareness," it said.
