Report reveals extent of sectarianism in the North

A new study has shown that one in three Northern Ireland children between the ages of 12 and 17 has experienced sectarian threats and verbal abuse by the time they leave school.

The Fair Play report was produced for Barnardos and the Save The Children Fund by University of Ulster academic Dr Paul Connolly.

Dr Connolly believes that discrimination is a real problem for children in Northern Ireland today.

He also said that children as young as three can hold strong, prejudiced views.

"As parents and guardians, we must ensure that we try to deal with the prejudice and discrimination which can seriously effect our children’s development, growth and self-confidence. I hope this book will prove to be a useful tool for parents to do so," Dr Connolly.

The report gives examples of typical questions, which children may ask, covering areas such as disability, racism and sectarianism.

Some of the comments made by children quoted in the booklet make disturbing reading.

The booklet will be distributed widely in the North and will be publicised through libraries, GP surgeries, post offices and other outlets.