Fitzgerald disturbed by increase in bullying

The Minister for Children said she is very disturbed by the findings of a new report which shows that bullying in Ireland is on the rise.

Frances Fitzgerald made the comments at the launch of the UNICEF report on the well being of children in the 29 OECD countries.

Overall, Ireland scored relatively well with 87% of children saying they are satisfied with their lives.

But 28% said they have been bullied - that is up slightly on the last report in 2001 and 2002 - and puts Ireland among only five countries which reported an increase in the behaviour.

Minister Fitzgerald said the Government is focusing on the issue - and schools and other youth organisations need to follow suit.

"I think we are beginning to make a difference but clearly it has to get the focus in schools, in community groups, in youth work settings," she said.

"Wherever children are gathered we have to interrupt any bullying that may be going on, put a focus on it, take action. Because it is damaging children's lives and it's a serious issue here".