The myth that sex does not exist in Ireland has been shattered. Sex is no longer hidden behind close doors. The Catholic Church's monopoly over sexual morality has been broken. Sex has become part of everyday social life. It is written and talked about and regularly displayed in film and television.A new programme of Relationships and Sexuality Education has been introduced into Irish schools. The aim is to help young people learn about themselves, their relationships and what it is to be sexual. The programme has become a controversial issue.

Is it an unnecessary intrusion into the private life of the family, or is it too little too late? Lessons in Irish Sexuality provides a clear, easily read, analysis of the issues involved in teaching young people about sexuality. It describes the deep divisions that exist in the way Irish people see, understand and relate to sex. At the heart of the problem is an older generation trying to teach a younger generation about issues and problems which they, as adults, are only coming to terms with themselves.