Ruane - violence against teachers unacceptable

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has called for an end to violence against teachers.

The Minister speaking following a debate in the Assembly said: “I absolutely abhor and condemn all forms of violence and abuse whether it is in the home or workplace. I am always saddened to hear that teaching staff have been the victims of assault or abuse whether physical, verbal or electronic. Such attacks are totally inexcusable and unacceptable and have no place in our schools. Our schools need to be safe havens not just for the children but also for the teachers and other staff working within them.

“In the last year my Department has undertaken considerable work to address this important topic. In conjunction with the employing authorities and teacher unions, my Department held a seminar on teacher abuse in November 2008 to consider the problem of abuse of teachers. A working group was also established, which is now finalising guidance for schools on how to tackle violent behaviour and offer support to teachers.

“It is essential that teachers report incidents of violence and abuse to their employers so that the extent of the problem can be monitored and appropriate action promptly taken. I am pleased that the employing authorities have agreed to extend their provision of counselling services to all teachers via a 24-hour confidential telephone helpline. This is a further important source of support and guidance for teachers suffering from violence and abuse.

“As well as dealing with incidents as they happen, education has a vital role in the prevention of violence and addressing the social issues which lead to abuse. The revised curriculum enables children and young people to explore emotional resilience and coping skills which can lead to improvements in behaviour. Also offering support are professional counselling services which have been made available to all primary, post-primary and special schools. Where this is needed, this support can help young people experiencing a difficult time in their lives.

“The Department of Education also provides funding to support the Anti-Bullying Forum Department, which helps schools and organisations working with young people to develop appropriate strategies to prevent and deal with bullying behaviours. In addition, the Department provides funding for Childline, which has a dedicated bullying helpline for children and young people.”

“I also welcome the work that the Irish National Teachers Union, the Ulster Teachers Union and Amnesty International are doing in the field of human rights. I have asked my officials to work with them in continuing this important work.”

Notes to Editors:

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