1996/99
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Probe into absent 'drinking' students
1 April 1998
SHOCK RESEARCH INTO WHY PUPILS MISSED CLASSES FOLLOWING NATIONAL HOLIDAY
By Tom Kelly
AN UNOFFICIAL survey conducted by a member of the Mayo teaching profession indicated that one-third of second level students in the county failed to turn up for classes on March 18th last, the day after Ireland's national holiday.
The shock finding was revealed by Ballindine-based teacher, Mr. Pat McHugh, who stated the reason for such a high percentage of absenteeism on the date in question was due to abuse of alcohol the night before. He further claimed that half of those who did attend classes were 'hung over and unfit to perform.'
Mr. McHugh, a member of the staff of Ballyhaunis Community School, called on Mayo Vocational Education Committee to carry out their own independent enquiry into the matter. He said every second level school in the county should be asked to return exact attendance figures for March 18th to establish the full extent of the problem.
He stated: 'My research has no scientific foundation. It is based on views obtained from teachers throughout the region. I believe the situation is worse than I am suggested. I am being conservative with my figures.'
Mr. McHugh said the reason for the degree of school absenteeism on the day after St. Patrick's Day was underage drinking. 'Alcohol consumption by teenagers under the age of eighteen is a problem which is getting worse rather than better. It's a matter that must be taken seriously on board by Mayo V.E.C. if our children are going to be saved from having their health ravaged by drink abuse.'
He stated the Garda Authorities had a huge role to play in cracking down on underage drinking before it got completely out of hand. 'There are laws governing the sale of alcohol to persons under 18 years. They should be applied with the same vigour as the laws governing speeding and pub closing hours.'
Mr. Pat Kilbane, a teacher at McHale College in Achill, stated absenteeism was as high as 50% in some Mayo schools on March 18th. 'Students need to be educated about the dangers of drink abuse. I am worried, as a teacher, about the growing number of situations in which young pupils are exposed to drink. The whole area of Debs Balls and Graduation Nights have to be looked as, as well as football presentation ceremonies being held in public houses.'
Members of Mayo V.E.C. are to hold a full debate on the issue at their next meeting to which A Garda Liaison Officer is to be invited.
Connaught Telegraph - News & Sport - April 1998
