Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Everybody has had an opportunity to contribute. It will be possible to allow some members to contribute again. They may indicate if they wish to do so. I skipped my time slot because, as Chair, I ask my questions at the end. I thank all the witnesses for our incredibly engaging discussion and debate. I am passionate about the subject. As a former teacher, I note from year to year the difficulties young people have because of bullying and a lack of support. I note the isolation they perceive themselves to be in. Society has a huge responsibility to try to do what it can to prevent bullying and to intervene and support those who need support. We must also support the perpetrator in seeing why his or her behaviour is completely wrong. This is why I believe restorative justice is very important. The committee regards this as a major part of its work. This is our third session on this matter, and there are three to follow to ensure that we will come forward with really strong recommendations for the Minister and the Department.

I agree with much of what has been discussed regarding the update of the RSE curriculum. This is important if we are to engender respect for those who are different, for whatever reason. The update of the anti-bullying procedures, which have been committed to since 2011, is exceedingly important. I was surprised to learn that data on schools around the country have not been compiled. They are important. Mr. O'Sullivan mentioned that many schools are doing their own thing. Are principles of good practice shared in the unions in respect of how schools are dealing with the matter?

I thank all the witnesses. Every time I have an opportunity to engage with the ISSU, I am incredibly impressed by the young people involved. I really am in awe of how articulate they all are and how they respond. We are talking about developing resilience in young people. Mr. Ryan is an ambassador for young people and students. Every one of the representatives has been incredible. I am always enthused by what I hear. We are on a good path when we have people like Mr. Ryan representing their peers. As a matter of course, we have always made sure we have included the voice of young people in dealing with every issue at meetings of this committee. Mr. Ryan does everybody proud.

I have a few brief questions. I will start with Mr. Ryan. I am looking for short responses, if possible. As a committee, we believe the voice of young people is exceedingly important in finding solutions to the issue of school bullying. How does Mr. Ryan believe schools can develop their own policies. How can young people be included better in this regard? Senator Dolan asked how parents could be included. We must consider the whole school community if we are to be successful. How does Mr. Ryan envisage parents becoming involved?

At our last meeting, on 11 May, one of the members of the advisory panel from Webwise said he felt that when teachers and gardaí go into schools to talk about bullying, it is more a case of lecturing rather than discussing. It is important that we examine this. Does Mr Ryan believe former students with experience of bullying should go into schools? How can this be addressed?