Legislative Measures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 June 2023

Wednesday, 28 June 2023

Questions (65)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

65. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education the progress to date in fulfilling the Programme for Government commitment to enact the Education (Student and Parent Charter) Bill 2019; further to Parliamentary Question No. 275 of 25 April 2023, the status of the engagement between her Department and stakeholders including the National Parents Council and the Office of the Ombudsman for Children on matters pertaining to the Education (Student and Parent Charter) Bill 2019; the expected timeline for the enactment of the Bill; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31394/23]

Written answers

Minister for Education

The overall aim of the Charter Bill is to improve the level of engagement in the school community by inviting feedback, comment and observation from the school community and by further developing a listening culture in schools.

One of the key concepts of the Bill is the need for a school to consult with students and their parents on individual school plans, policies and activities. This approach will help ensure that the various views of students and parents on issues and policies will be heard and responded to by schools.

The Charter Bill will make a difference to the culture in our schools and will help the school community to work together in partnership.

Officials in my Department are continuing to engage with key stakeholders on matters pertaining to the Bill.

The Implementation Plan for Cineáltas: Action Plan on Bullying includes a reference to my Department’s commitment to continue to engage with stakeholders regarding the Charter Bill with a view to progressing the legislation.