Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

I join Senator Ulick Burke in calling for a debate on disciplinary problems in classrooms in primary and secondary schools. While the problems referred to in the ASTI survey have their origins outside the school gate, they are manifested in the classroom to the detriment of teachers and pupils and reflect the fact that a significant swathe of parents seem to have opted out of their responsibilities regarding the welfare and education of their children. We must ask whether we are witnessing an unsavoury and unsatisfactory consequence of success and affluence. If so, it is one we can well do without.

I remind the House that a guidance counsellor system is in place throughout the second level system. Counsellors provide counselling in areas other than careers. This may be an appropriate time to review their role and to evaluate their contribution in addressing this recent phenomenon. Most schools have highly motivated teachers who are very competent and effective. They are addressing disciplinary problems very well, notwithstanding a significant and growing minority of students who have serious problems.

I support Senator Quinn who raised a very serious issue. In the past six to nine months, in particular, I have encountered many parents who have expressed extreme concern about scams involving telephone, card and letter lotteries. Students and other young people are being induced to respond to letters by way of telephone calls and otherwise on the understanding that they have been awarded or have won a prize. Notwithstanding the fact that one or two operations appear to have been legitimate, a significant scam is under way. This is a serious development over which there appears to be no control. The consequences can be major for certain families, particularly those on low incomes. It is time to bring the appropriate Minister to the House to address this issue. Legislation should be considered to halt this problem which has domestic and international origins.