Tony Killeen
Ceist:48 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Education if she has satisfied herself that the stay safe programme in primary schools does not undermine the rights of parents. [2633/95]
Written Answers. - Stay Safe Programme.
I am totally satisfied that the stay safe programme does not undermine the rights of parents in any respect.
I am aware that a small number of parents continue to have reservations about the programme. However, parents have the absolute right to decline to have their children participate, if they so wish. The voluntary aspect guarantees the rights of parents as the primary educators of their children.
The programme makes every effort to involve parents. It encourages discussion of the lessons by children at home with their parents. It fully recognises that parents are the most important people in a child's life and that the child is most likely to turn to them for help when they are upset or worried.
Every effort is made to ensure that parents are fully informed about the programme. Before its introduction into any school, parents are invited to an introductory meeting where the programme is explained. The parents are invited to ask any questions they may have and to have clarified any matter of concern to them.
Furthermore the child abuse prevention programme has produced a very informative guide for parents in relation to the programme. This booklet has been widely distributed to parents and there is a strong demand for copies.
Overall in terms of content and delivery I feel the programme takes a very balanced approach and fully respects the rights of parents in relation to the education of their children.
I remain firmly of the view that the programme is eminently suitable for implementation in primary schools and in proving beneficial to all concerned in this very sensitive area.