Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

The strategy exists in effect, but it must be implemented at school level. We should not lose sight of the fact that a policy on bullying can only work if the children, the teachers, the principal, the parents and the board of management sign up to it. Each of these must be familiar with the terms and sanctions of the policy and of how it will be implemented within the school. There is no point in just writing lofty plans. The guidelines are there, but they must be updated when necessary. The NEWB is doing this. The policy must be implemented at school level.

I am concerned that children should not miss school because of bullying. Televisions programmes aimed at children point out that children should tell and not be afraid to do so. Parents should also encourage children to tell.

Did the Deputy have another question?

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