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Minister Fitzgerald calls for end to Homophobic Bullying
Speaking on International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, Frances Fitzgerald TD,, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, spoke of her admiration for young people standing up against homophobic bullying.
"As Minister, I have been so impressed with how young people are leading the way on challenging attitudes and breaking down stereotypes against homophobic bullying. Bullying can have a terrible and corrosive impact on our children and young people, on their confidence, their self-esteem and their mental health. The affects of bullying can last for years."
"The Programme for Government commits to supporting schools in developing strategies to combat homophobic bullying to support students. Minister Ruairi Quinn and I are hosting the National Anti-Bullying Forum today to bring stakeholders together to help tackle bullying, and it is very welcome that this forum coincides with the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia."
Ends.
Notes for Editors
o The Anti-Bullying Forum features a range of speakers including experts in the field of bullying, NGOs such as the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network, BeLong To, the National Anti-Bullying Coalition and others from the school sector, such as students, principals, teachers and parents.
o Research from the Department of Children & Youth Affairs 'Growing Up in Ireland' study highlights how over 24% of 9 to 17 year olds have reported been bullied.
o Research by the Anti-Bullying Centre Trinity College highlighting how one in four girls and one in six boys in Ireland have been involved in cyber-bullying either as a victim, bully or both.