Minister Haughey launches Goundbreaking Guidance for School Principals on Sexual Orientation Issues

Minister for Lifelong Learning, Seán Haughey TD, today (Tue 13th Oct. 2009) in the Clock Tower  Conference Centre  in  the  Department of Education  and Science , Dublin launched groundbreaking new guidance on sexual orientation for second level schools.

Minister Haughey

Launching the Resource Minister Haughey said ‘I am delighted to launch this important resource which represents the culmination of a lot of hard work by all concerned and has had the committed involvement of all the education partners. It will be of very significant practical assistance to Principals and Schools Leaders”.

The Guidance for second-level School Principals produced by the Department and GLEN (Gay and Lesbian Equality Network) is the first comprehensive guidance for schools on sexual orientation issues that has the backing of all the education partners. It supports schools in tackling homophobic bullying and in providing a safe and supportive environment for lesbian, gay and bisexual students. It is intended to be used by School Principals to implement measures such as creating opportunities to have positive visibility of LGB students and developing zero-tolerance policies on homophobic bullying in their Schools.

Sandra Gowran, Director of Education Policy at GLEN said “this guide is a major step forward for schools. It will benefit all second level school goers, especially those who may be lesbian, gay or bisexual, by creating environments in schools that are more accepting of difference and diversity.”

“Our schools have always played an important role in transmitting our values as a society to all students. These values include respect for diversity and acceptance and celebration of difference”, said Minister Haughey. The 21st century school is one that is safe and supportive of all students, including lesbian gay and bisexual students. As with all bullying in schools, homophobic bullying is unacceptable and a whole-school approach is required to ensure that lesbian, gay and bisexual students are safe and supported and achieve their full educational and personal potential.

Recognising the breakthrough importance of the engagement of all Education Partners on this issue for the first time, Sandra Gowran commented “All the Education Partners (Management Bodies, Teachers Unions, Principals Bodies and Teachers Unions) are aware of the prevalence of homophobic bullying and its impact on LGB students. Recognising the seriousness of the issue, the Partners are supporting the development and implementation of the Guidance. This is a most welcome and progressive development.”

Clive Byrne, Director of the Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD), speaking in advance of the launch said “This is a very important and valuable resource which will be welcomed wholeheartedly by Principals and Deputy Principals up and down the country. The NAPD is committed to supporting our members in addressing the serious issue of homophobic bullying and in providing safe and supportive schools for all students”

Minister Haughey concluded “A partnership approach is vital to the achievement of a successful outcome to this project and I would like to confirm the continuing support of my Department to this important agenda. I look forward to continued collaboration with GLEN and the education partners in the future”.

For Further Information, contact:

Sandra Gowran      Director of Education Policy, GLEN      (087) 7960615 or
Brian Sheehan        Director, GLEN                                            (086) 2330417

GLEN – Gay and Lesbian Equality Network,
Fumbally Court, Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8
E: info@glen.ie; W: www.glen.ie  T: +353 1 4730563