Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)

There have been memos, reports, circulars and recommendations but the problem still persists. While coming to work this morning, I witnessed young children of no more than eight on their way to school with what can best be described as rucksacks. One would think they were going on safari rather than to a primary school. Is the Minister aware of the report by an American professor that states no child should be allowed to carry a school bag that weighs more than 10% of his or her own weight? The report also states it is harmful to the skeletal development of a child to be carrying such burdens.

The reports and circulars have not been effective. Ministers and Governments come and go, yet the problem arises every year. Will the Minister consider legislating to set out in black and white what is allowable?

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