Mr. David Byrne:

It is an exceptionally good point and it contributes to an idea of being called silly boys and sensible girls. It is almost, by definition, we accept that boys will behave this way and girls will behave differently. In a sense, boys are rewarded for dominating the classroom and girls are rewarded for being submissive. There was an example earlier from Ms Neville of attending a woodwork class for junior cycle but not going back at senior cycle. That is an absolutely awful lesson to learn and it is reinforced by the dynamic in the classroom. There was no fault from the student in question but there is something really wrong with how the classroom is being managed when a student does not want to pursue a subject because of it. It is a very serious matter that must be addressed.