Education bill - Schools must be free from disruption

Doubtless, teachers and parents will welcome proposals in education law aimed at restoring the balance in the classroom between the rights of an unruly pupil and those of others who want to pursue their education.

Education Minister Mary Hanafin announced the bill yesterday which will seek to remove the emphasis, or priority, which the appeals committee set up by her department accords to an expelled or suspended pupil.

When enacted into law, it will provide for the educational interests of other students, and a number of other factors including the health, safety and welfare of teachers and students.