Mr. Martin O'Halloran:

The issue of bullying is dealt with by a number of State agencies. Our policy is that issues of stress and bullying are to be identified as a hazard. When our inspectors visit a workplace they will inspect the policy. Any grievance is channelled through the Labour Relations Commission. We have issued a code of practice on bullying which complements the LRC code of practice. Deputy O'Brien asked about education. Each year we receive a number of complaints of bullying in the teaching and medical professions and in a range of other areas. Every complaint is followed up and dealt with. The authority recently issued guidelines for the management of health and safety in all primary schools. The guidelines were provided free of charge to all 3,300 primary schools in the country. Training was provided for principals and designated staff and the guidelines specifically address the issue of stress and bullying in the workplace.