‘Parents on our school boards are legally safe’

EDUCATION Minister Mary Hanafin has reassured parents serving on school management boards that they are legally protected in the event of a court case against them.

The remarks come after the High Court case of a woman who unsuccessfully sued the State for sexual abuse she suffered in a Co Cork school as a child.

The woman, 42-year-old Louise O’Keeffe from Cork, faces a legal bill of €500,000 after the court ruled the Department of Education was not liable for the abuse she suffered.

Following the judgment, commentators feared liability for similar cases could rest with school boards of management instead of the State.

But yesterday Ms Hanafin said: “Parents serving on school boards of management are providing a crucial and valued service for their whole community.

“In carrying out their functions on the board they are protected from any personal liability should legal action be taken against that board.”

Ms Hanafin said she wanted to allay fears over the responsibilities of board members, who perform a vital function in helping to run schools.

“It is vitally important that parents know with certainty that they have legal protections afforded to them in carrying out their valuable role on the board,” she said.

“Indeed, the Attorney- General has confirmed that where a member of a board of management performs their functions in good faith under the Education Act, no action can lie against them personally.”

Despite the legal judgment absolving the department of any responsibility in the sex abuse case, Ms Hanafin said the department and schools were working closely on policy and other issues.

She said the voluntary effort of parents for their school community was the bedrock of good community spirit, and the Government would continue to support parents in their role.

“With new boards being established later this year, €1 million is available to specifically train boards on issues such as good governance, financial management, bullying and child protection.

“We will continue to liaise with the management bodies to see what further training is required once initial training has been completed.”

Today, the minister is to address more than 200 parents at the National Parents Council Primary Conference.

Ms Hanafin paid tribute to Fionnuala Kilfeather who is stepping down as chief executive of the council.