Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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388. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if it is permitted to introduce and implement a non-school jacket policy; and the protocols in respect of schools and their uniform policy. [57476/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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Under the provisions of the Education Act, 1998 the Board of Management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school on behalf of the Patron.

Individual school authorities are responsible for the drawing up of a school policy in relation to the wearing of uniforms. Decisions on changes to school uniform polices are a matter for the school’s at local level. Schools are advised to consult with parents and students when drafting a policy on uniforms.

The Student and Parent Charter Bill is currently progressing through the Dáil. The legislation particularly recognises the importance of listening to the voice of children and students. It is intended that the bill will enhance this by actively inviting and responding to comments and feedback from parents and children in an age appropriate manner.

The Bill will enable students and parents to be better informed about matters relating to their school. Under national guidelines provided for in the legislation, schools will be required to provide a range of information to students and their parents on school plans and policies, including on school uniforms policies.