New Child Protection Mandatory Reporting Requirements for Irish Teachers: Implementation Challenges and Barriers

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Thirteen
  In Roundtable Session: Conditions Conducive to Learning That Promote Educational Change (Table 15)

Abstract

New statutory obligations placed on Irish teachers include mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect, and mandatory assistance, when required, in state agency assessments. Research conducted with Irish primary schools (n=387) to ascertain their experiences after these requirements were introduced indicate implementation challenges and barriers in fulfilling these obligations. These include designated liaison persons’ unfamiliarity with the procedures, and their dissatisfaction with training for their role; low levels of teacher preparedness for the mandated reporting role; teacher concerns about the consequences of reporting suspected child abuse; and a dearth in quantity and quality of teacher education. Recommendations include the need for quality, sustained support for such educational change.

Authors

• Mia Treacy, Mary Immaculate College
  Presenting Author

• Margaret M Nohilly, Mary Immaculate College
  Non-Presenting Author