Minister for Education Niamh Bhreathnach issues new guidelines to deal with bullying in schools.
According to the latest report from the Department of Education, it is estimated that around one in ten students are bullies or victims of bullying.
Bullying is a problem of increasing concern in schools at both primary and post-primary level.
A special committee was established earlier this year to draw up anti-bullying guidelines. The findings are now being distributed to all schools. The main message of the report is that all reports of bullying should be investigated by teachers. The guidelines also indicate that if necessary parents, doctors and other relevant parties outside schools should be told about the bullying.
The guidelines indicate that all schools require a formal procedure for reporting bullying. If the problem is serious, then it should be reported to the school board of management.
The anti-bullying policy should be a central part of any schools discipline procedures. The report also indicates that teacher training is required on how to manage bullying when it arises in the classroom.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 2 July 1993. The reporter is Lorna Donlon.
