Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 6 Mar 1990

Vol. 396 No. 6

Written Answers. - Schools Codes of Discipline.

John Bruton

Ceist:

259 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education the proportion of schools which have, in accordance with Circular 7/88, drawn up a code of discipline; if schools drawing up such codes are advised to furnish them to her Department; if she provides any models or guidelines for schools on the content, enforceability and legal status of such codes; and if she will offer special financial assistance to schools obliged to seek legal advice on the content or enforcement of such a code of discipline.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

I have no detailed information on the number of schools which have drawn up a code of discipline as provided for in Circular 7/88. However, I am satisfied that many schools have done so at this stage. Schools are not required to provide my Department with a copy of their disciplinary code.

No models have been provided to schools on the content of their codes of discipline. Circular 7/88 contains a revised text of Rule 130 of the Rules for National Schools and also deals with the general approach schools should take in drawing up a code of discipline. The circular was prepared having regard to the respective legal position of the various parties involved in school disciplinary matters. In accordance with the commitment contained in Circular 7/88, that circular is at present under review and related school discipline problems raised by the different representative bodies at primary level are being considered in consultation with those bodies.

My Department are not in a position to assist school authorities with legal expenses which they may incur in relation to disciplinary matters in their schools.