Mr. David O'Sullivan:

I thank the Senator. With regard to the online safety commissioner, this is obviously something which would be welcomed. We need to give it further thought and consideration and revert to the committee with regard to the specific role this individual would have. We will come back to the committee on that.

With regard to bullying that happens outside of the school, it can sometimes start at school before continuing outside. It is a matter of trying to get the balance correct. Schools cannot be responsible for every single thing that happens in society but, at the same time, issues do come back into the school setting. It is a matter of achieving balance, getting parents involved and getting the wider school community to address those particular issues. Everybody wants a safe and harmonious school environment. Issues that arise outside tend to end up in schools. Schools are well versed in trying to restore harmony between parties when issues arise. The Senator mentioned restorative practice. Perhaps something more in that line would be appropriate. The Professional Development Service for Teachers ran a pilot programme on that last year and produced a report on restorative practice. It is about getting relationships re-established so that everybody can work together.