Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

On Committee Stage, the Minister did not accept an amendment I proposed that sought to empower the Minister of the day to make national regulations on suspension and exclusion. His decision was based on the existence of statutory codes under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, section 23 of which requires schools to draw up codes of conduct and procedures they must follow before students can be suspended or excluded.

My concern is that schools are developing these codes of conduct on an ad hocbasis with no oversight by the Minister. They are able to write them in any manner they wish. Amendment No. 21 would empower the Minister to make national guidelines for schools on how best to develop codes of conduct in this area. This would mean that some form of national uniform standard would exist, bring ministerial oversight to this area, provide guidance to schools and give parents and students a national reference for dealing with these issues. My intention is that this amendment would complement the provisions of section 23 of the Education (Welfare) Act 2000 in ensuring codes of conduct are developed with national guidance in the best interests of schools, parents and pupils. I hope the Minister can accept this amendment, which is meant to be constructive.