Councillors back anti-bullying legislation

The issue was discussed by Councillors this week.

Councillors in Cavan have backed calls for the introduction of anti-bullying legislation.

The family of Eden Heaslip have garnered support from across the country after the 18 year old died by suicide in September.

HIs father has spoken out about Eden’s struggles with bullying and the need for legislation to tackle the issue to be introduced.

Cllrs Shane P O’Reilly (IND) and TP O’Reilly (FG) raised the issue separately at Cavan County Council’s November meeting.

They called for anti-bullying legislation to be introduced and urged action from Government.

“This is an issue which resonates with every single parent. It would break your heart”, said Cllr Shane P O’Reilly. He called for work to be done to draw up legislation to deal with bullying in all sectors of society, not just in schools.

Cllr TP O’Reilly described bullying as “an epidemic” and said it was up to all representatives to “force legislation through”.

The councillors are to discuss combining their motions and write to the relevant Ministers and Departments.

For more on this discussion see next week's Celt.