Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)

I am happy to have an opportunity to speak briefly in support of Fine Gael's Private Members' motion on school discipline, which is an important matter that needs to be addressed urgently. I agree we should note the interim findings of the task force on student behaviour, which reported serious difficulties in our schools, including threats against teachers and their property, fighting, assaults, the carrying of dangerous weapons on school property and the taking of drugs on school property. It is obvious the anti-social behaviour in our schools is a reflection of what is happening in our wider society. The vast majority of students want to learn, but they encounter serious difficulties in doing so because of the disruptive behaviour of a small number of students. I urge the Minister to publish the final report of the task force immediately, Not only should the task force be funded, but funding should be provided to all bodies involved in this area. Deputy Grealish suggested that the €2 million that was allocated in the budget was an indication of the Government's commitment in this area. If that is a commitment, it is a minor one. We need real commitment and political will to effect real change in this area. Schools should be given the resources they need to deal with ill-discipline.

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