Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
327. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education further to the Government’s announcement of plans to ban mobile phones across all second-level schools, if she has considered the potential inadvertent consequences that such a ban may have on students living with diabetes who are users of a glucose monitoring device (details supplied); if an exception will be made for these pupils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36662/24]
View answerIn my recent communication to schools regarding the implementation of a ban on the use of mobile phones during the school day, I recognised that schools are best placed to determine the specific approach and policy required to achieve a school day that is free from mobile phone use by students. I also asked that schools consult with their students and parents in developing the policy that is best suited to their own circumstances.
Schools have also been informed that the policy should provide for students who need access to their mobile phone during school hours for particular reasons and in accordance with existing policy, such as students with diabetes who might use continuous glucose monitoring linked to their mobile phone.
Further guidance is being developed and will be issued to schools in the coming weeks.
