Vol. 457 No. 7
112 Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, his Department has for the development of a comprehensive national child abuse prevention strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16227/95]
113 Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn asked the Minister for Health the public health education measures, if any, that his Department has taken in the area of positive parenting and setting limits on children without punishment or violence in view of the Law Reform Commission Report on non-fatal offences against the person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16229/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 112 and 113 together.
The most important initiative that has been taken to reduce the incidence of child abuse and neglect is the Stay Safe Child Abuse Prevention Programme. The aim of this programme is to prevent all forms of child abuse by equipping parents and teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect the children in their care. Children are also taught safety skills in the normal classroom context and these skills are reinforced through discussion with their parents. This approach increases community awareness and makes children less vulnerable to abuse of all kinds. The Stay Safe Programme is currently being implemented in primary schools throughout the country with the active support of the Departments of Health and Education and the health boards.
With regard to the promotion of positive parenting a number of community based child care services incorporate elements aimed at improving parenting skills. The outcome of such programmes has been shown to enhance the overall well-being of child and improve family relationships. By building self-esteem and developing good patterns of communications within the family, these programmes encourage parents to exercise control over their children without resorting to corporal punishment.
