Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 June 2004
103 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the guidelines which exist regarding bullying amongst students in schools, including the way in which allegations of bullying and substantiated bullying are to be addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19593/04]
View answerIndividual school management authorities are responsible for implementing effective policies to counter bullying in schools. In 1993, my Department issued "Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour" to all primary and post-primary schools. The purpose of the guidelines was to assist schools in devising school based measures to prevent and deal with instances of bullying behaviour and to increase awareness of the problem among school management authorities, staff, pupils and parents. A further circular in 1994 reminded school authorities of their responsibility in formulating a written code of behaviour and discipline, which should include specific measures to counter bullying behaviour.
The guidelines provide advice on the procedures for investigating allegations of bullying and for dealing with substantiated instances.
