Brendan Kenneally
Question:121 Mr. Kenneally asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, she has to cater for pupils who are expelled from mainstream schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16844/95]
Written Answers. - Mainstream School Expulsions.
Under the Rules for National Schools, no pupil shall be struck off the rolls for breaches of discipline without the prior consent of the patron and unless alternative arrangements are made for the enrolment of the pupil at another suitable school. At second level the managerial authorities of each school are responsible for ensuring that a fair and efficient code of behaviour, encompassing rules, sanctions and procedures, is drawn up and applied in the school.
Circumstances will vary from school to school and it is only those intimately involved with a particular school who can drawn up the detail of a code of discipline appropriate for that school. Accordingly, the most effective method of countering indiscipline is for each individual school to draw up its own code of behaviour. In drawing up the code, school authorities should have regard to guidelines issued by my Department.
In 1990 and 1991, my Department issued Guidelines Towards a Positive Policy for School Behaviour and Discipline together with A Suggested Code of Behaviour and Discipline to all schools. Within these guidelines individual boards are given the discretion to work out specific details. The guidelines lay considerable stress on the use of suspension only as a last resort and I am satisfied that schools also see it in that way.
My Department gives assistance in securing placement in individual cases. Typically this can arise where a pupil has been suspended as a result of disruptive behaviour and where alternative arrangements need to be made. In these circumstances, my Department endeavours through a process of consultation with the schools and through its inspectorate to assist in the reinstatement of the pupil in the school or alternatively, his-her placement in another school.
The truancy report, published in April 1994, highlighted the question of suspensions and expulsions from schools. Subsequent to the publication of this report a task force was established within the Department to examine submissions on the report and to make recommendations for further action.
My Department is continuing to develop its policy in this area and future initiatives will be taken only after full consultation with the education partners.