Education Minister, Jane Kennedy has today announced the start of a three-month consultation exercise to consider proposals for new suspension and expulsion procedures in schools.

Explaining the background to the proposals, the Minister said this would be the first time suspension and expulsion procedures have been reviewed in Northern Ireland.

"These proposals would have an impact on all schools, pupils and parents and it is important that all interested parties take part in the consultation exercise," the Minister said. "I will want to consider very carefully all the views received before reaching any decisions on new suspension and expulsion procedures for schools."

The Minister said her Department had recognised the need to re-examine the legislative and administrative framework for the suspension and expulsion of pupils in the light of the increased emphasis on the rights of children, the duty on statutory agencies to promote social inclusion and current best practice in managing pupils with challenging behaviours.

“We need to ensure that the procedures are based on a respect for the rights of all parties including pupils and recognise the extreme nature of the sanctions involved," she added.

The review group was set up two years ago by the Department. Its membership included representatives from the Department, the Education and Library Boards and the CCMS. Its brief was to review expulsion and suspension arrangements in schools and to recommend improvements.

(MB)