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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Feb 2003

Vol. 560 No. 3

Written Answers. - School Bullying.

Dan Boyle

Question:

256 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the existence or otherwise of arbitration or mediation procedures in relation to school bullying; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2323/03]

Dan Boyle

Question:

257 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the consideration he has given to the introduction of mandatory reporting in relation to school bullying; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2324/03]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 256 and 257 together.

School management authorities are responsible for implementing effective policies to counter bullying in schools. Schools may employ a variety of strategies to counter bullying behaviour. The choice of whether to use mediation or arbitration procedures is entirely a matter for individual schools taking account of the particular ethos, culture and character of the schools.
Such procedures would not appear to conflict with the proactive approach to dealing with the issue which lies at the heart of the guidelines on countering bullying behaviour issued by my Department. Nor would they appear to be in conflict with the social, personal and health education programme which is part of the curriculum in every primary school at present and which will be a mandatory component of the junior cycle in all second level schools by September. The content of the programme reflects current best practice in the area of educating children in relation to bullying. It advocates a supportive school environment where respect, tolerance and fairness are valued and where conflict is handled constructively.
I have no plans to introduce mandatory reporting in relation to school bullying.
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