Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

Deputy McGrath has expressed it quite well. The teacher in the classroom is the person who should be in control and should have the skill to deal with the wide range of issues that arise. The terms of reference of the task force refer to the issue of disruptive students as it impacts on teaching and learning, the effectiveness of strategy at present, in other words, looking at best practice which can then be shared. Any teacher will appreciate being given information on best practice and current strategies. The task force will advise on best practice nationally and internationally. It will make recommendations on how to promote an improved climate for teaching and learning.

I wish to make it clear that the task force is dealing with second level education. It is quite true to say that students cannot leave their families, their society and their problems at the school gate and much of what is happening in the classroom is a reflection of difficulties they are dealing with outside. This is the reason the work of the National Educational Welfare Board, the education psychologists and the wider family support is crucially important in this regard. I refer to positions such as the home-school liaison teacher, which can also be very important. I regard this task force as being a whole school approach to dealing with school behaviour. I look forward to getting the group's recommendations and implementing them quickly.

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