Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 28 Feb 1995

Vol. 449 No. 7

Written Answers. - Suspension of Student.

Seamus Brennan

Ceist:

177 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Education the reason a student (details supplied) in Dublin 16 who is in a junior certificate class at a school (details supplied) in County Dublin has been suspended from attending class since 26 January; why he was not allowed to make a personal statement to the board of management on 21 February 1995, as requested by his parents in which he would have given an undertaking to be of good behaviour; her views on whether this lengthy suspension ratified by the board of management on 21 February 1995, is acceptable in the junior certificate year; if she will instruct the board of management to reinstate the student on the basis of the undertaking given orally to the principal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4470/95]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I understand that this pupil has a record of disruptive behaviour since he commenced attending this school in October 1993. Following the latest incident the pupil was suspended indefinitely from school by the principal on 30 January 1995.

In accordance with established practice and procedure, the pupil's parents were informed of the suspension on 30 January and also of their right to lodge an appeal with the board of management.The case was discussed by the board at its meeting on 21 February. The parents attended and made representations on behalf of their son. Following full consideration of the case including the representations made by the parents, the suspension was upheld. The board did not consider it appropriate to depart from normal procedure to accept personal representations from the pupil concerned. It was agreed that the pupil would be allowed sit his junior certificate examinations in the school if he wished.

I have asked the inspectorate in my Department to examine the case to see what options for alternative placement may be available and to assist the parents with this aspect if required.