Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 623: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the issue between parents and the school management at a school (details supplied) in County Louth concerning pupil safety; the steps he is taking to resolve the matter in the children's best interest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4513/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I am not aware of the specific case referred to by the Deputy.

Under the Education Act 1998, the Board of Management has responsibility for the day-to-day management of the school. Issues in relation to the supervision of pupils are therefore matters for each Board of Management. While my Department does not issue specific guidelines on requirements for supervision of pupils, it acknowledges that the degree of supervision required of school authorities varies with the circumstances, including the age of the pupil. It is the responsibility of each individual managerial authority to arrange for appropriate supervision for its pupils.

At a wider level, there will be a full review of the substitution and supervision scheme in conjunction with the school management bodies and teacher unions during this school year.