Conor Lenihan
Question:430 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will outlaw the use of laser pens in the classroom. [27596/98]
Written Answers. - Laser Instruments.
Conor Lenihan
Question:431 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will place legislative restrictions on the use of laser pens. [27597/98]
Conor Lenihan
Question:432 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the misuse of laser pens in the classroom as expressed by the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland. [27598/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 430, 431 and 432 together.
I am concerned about the possibility of injury being caused in schools by such items as laser pens. It is, at present, open to school management authorities to prohibit the use in the classroom of items such as laser pens if they are considered a safety risk. Under health and safety legislation (Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989), school management authorities are obliged to carry out a risk assessment with regard to the activities carried on and equipment used in the school classroom. The Health and Safety Authority has overall responsibility for the administration and enforcement of the occupational safety and health system under that legislation.