Higgins calls for school books to carry suicide prevention and anti-bullying information

Labour Senator Lorraine Higgins is requesting the Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn to implement a policy that will assist in the safety and wellbeing of teenagers, by having all secondary schools books printed with suicide prevention and anti-bullying helpline information on their back covers.

Senator Higgins said, “Bullying and suicide are two issues which continue to persist across the country and unfortunately remain prevalent amongst teenagers. I feel that every channel of communication must be examined to raise awareness of these issues, which are reaching unacceptable levels in our society. Helpline information needs to be easily accessible for those who need it the most.”

“Therefore I am requesting the Department of Education and Skills to implement the initiative of including all suicide and anti-bullying helpline information, on the back covers of all secondary school books and manuals within present and future curriculum for secondary students, where appropriate. This information should contain the telephone numbers and website details for Childline and all other relevant bodies and organisations that deal with anti-bullying and suicide prevention.”