Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I understand that teachers are very positive about the programme. The schools in which it has not been implemented are those where parents have objected to it. The reasons included a dislike of the emphasis on "yes-no" and a preference for "right-wrong" in a moral context. Some parents felt that the basis of the programme was quite dubious.

In a school where the programme is offered, parents have the right not to have their children participate in it. We have evidence only with regard to about 46 children withdrawn from the programme, but 26 of those were from one school. It is clear therefore that there were particular issues in a small number of schools. I would much rather see a situation where by explaining the programme properly and bringing those parents on board, the programme could be implemented with the full co-operation of the entire school community rather than by diktat from me or the Department. We are very close to seeing the programme fully implemented. Even though I supplied a take-up figure of 80% to85%, I understand the INTO believes the figure to be a good deal higher. I will keep the situation under review but would prefer if the school communities themselves appreciated the value of the stay safe programme in protecting children.

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