Rose Conway-Walsh (Mayo, Sinn Fein)
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I confirm that I am in Leinster House. I have been listening to the discussion and I thank all of the witnesses for their submissions. The witnesses will know that it takes time to create a culture of zero tolerance to bullying behaviours in a school to enable everybody within that school environment to feel safe. The more bureaucracy and demands placed on teachers within the school environment, the more difficult it is to create a positive culture. I have seen it done, but it has been done more in spite of the situation than because of the resources, recognition or supports provided to the schools. We have models of very good practice.

A couple of things stand out for me. It was cited earlier that a fully trained member of staff should be available with allocated time as a behaviour support teacher. I agree that would be a really good idea. Do the witnesses foresee that teacher having teaching responsibilities as well and, if so, how can that be done? Often, somebody is appointed to a particular role, but realistically he or she does not have the time to do what is needed to do the job properly. I ask the witnesses to address the issue of time. It was also suggested by Mr. Irwin of the ACCS that schools should have access to a psychotherapist or a counsellor. I agree those therapies are certainly not available within the schools when they are needed, but is that a reasonable ask? What is the cost to the school in education terms of not having those personnel appointed or allocated?