Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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347. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position in relation to the person or body that has the ultimate decision-making power when it comes to raising rainbow pride flags at State-run schools in Ireland. [35825/22]

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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348. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a bishop may remove decision-making power from a board of management in a Catholic school within their diocese when it comes to raising rainbow pride flags showing solidarity with LGBTI+ students and staff during Pride month. [35826/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 347 and 348 together.

Under the provisions of the Education Act, 1998 the Board of Management is responsible for the day to day running of a school. While schools have the autonomy to participate and support initiatives such as this, I would support and encourage all schools to implement measures that support the full inclusion of all students in all schools including LGBTI+ students and to put in place measures that foster positive learning environments for every student to reach their full potential. 

This Government is fully committed to creating safe, supportive and inclusive environments in every school and college for all students, including LGBTI+ students.  

My Department is supporting implementation of the national LGBTI Youth Strategy 2018-2020 which includes a range of actions for the education sector addressing the curriculum, professional development, school buildings and development of prevention initiatives for LGBTI+ identity-based bullying in schools.  

These actions aim to ensure the full participation by the LGBTI+ community in education, free from inequality, bullying or exclusion.  Implementation has the potential to significantly tackle the inequality faced by LGBTI+ children and young people within a clear policy framework. Focusing on inclusion in the classroom, the Strategy includes actions targeting education, relating to curriculum and the wellbeing of school personnel including LGBTI+ personnel.