Vol. 447 No. 1
352 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education, in view of the medical advice which shows that more children are suffering from postural scoliois because of carrying heavy schoolbags, if all schools will be provided with lockers; if she will examine the possibility of standardising the shape of books together with the production of material in modules rather than complete books; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3287/94]
I share the Deputy's concern about the possible detrimental effect on children of carrying heavy schoolbags.
I set out my views on this matter for the House on 13 October, 1994.
The only issue raised by the Deputy which I did not specifically address on that occasion concerns the use of lockers.
My view is that the problem of lockers or alternative facilities for the safe custody of books can be considered only as part of a wider solution at school level. This should involve prudent time-tabling and advance planning by teachers so that pupils know in advance what books are required on any particular day and also the books they need to take with them for home use.
Consequently I have no plans to provide lockers in all schools.
