Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (Dublin North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We have moved towards discussing the cost of running schools. I understand the progression in this regard but we are trying to focus on the costs parents incur when their children return to school. Many speakers have indicated that this is a local issue, particularly in the context of schools' policies on uniforms, etc. However, members would be encouraged if our guests took a leadership role in respect of this matter and sent out some guidelines to schools with regard to what might be considered appropriate for investigation at local level. I understand that our guests' hands are tied but their showing some leadership on this matter would have an impact at local level in the context of policies relating to school uniforms, the giving of presents to teachers, etc. Children giving presents to their teachers might be regarded as being no big deal or even frivolous but it has an impact on families at various times throughout the school year. If we state that this should be decided at local level, then we are not showing enough leadership. I am of the view that guests should take the lead and issue some guidelines. However, it is entirely up to them to decide what they wish to do.