asked the Minister for Education if any regulation exists in her Department which permits boards of management or school principals to insist that pupils wear school uniforms; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some schools are insisting that pupils wear uniforms, under the threat of expulsions; if she intends to take any measures to protect the interests of parents who cannot afford or do not wish their children to wear uniforms; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - School Uniforms.
341.
I am not aware of the situation to which the Deputy refers. Under the Rules for National Schools, the wearing of a uniform cannot be made compulsory, nor may a pupil be discriminated against for not wearing one.
The question of school uniforms in post-primary schools is primarily a matter for the authorities of the schools concerned. My Department has not made any formal provision concerning this matter in the case of post-primary schools.