Whilst we allow the church to dominate our lives and those of our kids, this will happen. I can't speak for Irish law, but in the UK no church has any legal power over us, no matter what it may say. The only power it holds over us is what we choose to let it.
Unfortunately church and education have been closely intertwined for so long they've become virtually inseparable. Our kids grow up fearful and guilt-ridden, forced to conform under threat of being cast out of society. They cannot know otherwise. Some are enlightened, but too many live their whole (often short) lives in the cage that is religion.
Separate state education completely from 'faith' and we may just be taking the first step to freedom.