Billy Timmins
Question:60 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps, if any, he has taken to implement the recommendations of the report on the weight of schoolbags; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3641/99]
Written Answers. - Weight of Schoolbags.
The report of the working group on the potential problems caused by the weight of heavy school bags outlines a number of recommendations which have implications, not only for my Department, but also for schools, parents and publishers. One of the main recommendations relates to the need to heighten the awareness of the potential health hazards posed by excessively heavy schoolbags.
In this regard my Department, at primary and post primary levels, is in the process of initiating an awareness raising campaign by arranging for the dissemination of the report, with an accompanying circular, to all primary and post primary schools. Furthermore, information leaflets and posters will also be distributed to all schools which will highlight the potential health hazard of heavy schoolbags and outline the range of local measures that can be adopted in order to alleviate the problem.
In addition, the building unit of my Department has amended its documentation for the provision of furniture to include an optional specification for sloped desks. Schools which are entitled to grant assistance for desks as a result of a new school or extension being provided may choose the specification for sloped desks. It is a matter for the school to decide whether or not they wish to avail of this option.