Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for attending. The three organisations before us are involved in the business of providing support and guidance to the people who run our primary and secondary schools. My first question relates to a scenario that I have often encountered, that is, where bullying is connected to the school but continues outside the school, be that through social media, on the street or wherever. Unfortunately, I have encountered situations where parents have been frustrated by their experience with a school's attitude, which was effectively that bullying outside the school was not its problem. Attitudes are evolving in that regard and some schools are proactive, but will the three organisations give a brief insight into how they advise that such situations be addressed? Although it is challenging, it is important that, where there is a connection to a school, there is a responsibility on the school.

I noted that at least two of the three organisations mentioned the online safety commissioner, which is a vital piece of work. Previously, the ASTI mentioned that it would be beneficial if the large social media platforms had a contact person available to schools as a resource for incidents of online bullying. Will the witnesses comment on this point?

I do not need them to comment on my next point, but I agree with the comments made by the CPSMA regarding mental health services.

Are the witnesses confident that enough data are being gathered by schools and the Department on bullying, including its incidence?