Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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284. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the protection that exists for children and teachers who are regularly in a position where there is only one adult present with a number of young children; whether this is in breach of best practice for child protection and does it leave teachers open to allegations of inappropriate behaviour. [41039/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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It is a recognised and fundamental feature of our education system, and of education systems throughout the world, that a teacher, as part of his or her professional duties, will be in sole charge of a group of pupils. In carrying out their teaching role, all teachers have a duty of care to the pupils they teach. All schools and school personnel are also required to adhere to my Department's "Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post-Primary Schools" which are based on "Children First – National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2011". These procedures require all schools to have in place a Child Protection Policy. This policy must recognise that child protection and welfare considerations permeate all aspects of school life and must be reflected in all of the school's policies, practices and activities.

The "Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post- Primary Schools" also include the procedures that schools and school personnel must follow when dealing with child protection concerns, including where an allegation is made against a school employee. The child protection procedures are clear that in all cases, the most important consideration to be taken into account is the protection of children, and their safety and well-being must be the priority.