Parents warned as Limerick pupil misses 91% of school days

A JUDGE has warned the parents of a teenage boy who refuses to go to school there will be consequences if significant progress is not made, writes David Hurley.

In addition to missing more than 90% of all school days since last September, the 14-year-old has attended, on occasions, without a uniform, school bag or lunch.

“The position is not good, it’s an appalling picture overall, it’s severe educational neglect,” solicitor Kevin Sherry, representing Tulsa, told Limerick District Court.

Mr Sherry confirmed there are significant supports in place and that the child and family agency is extremely concerned that progress is not being made.

Solicitor Ted McCarthy, representing the boy’s father, said his client “does not want the young fella at home every day”,  but that he “just won’t go to school”.

Solicitor Sarah Ryan said the boy’s mother is “making every effort” to ensure he attends school but that he refuses to co-operate.

She added that the couple have two other children who are attending school without any difficulty.

Noting the Tusla report, Judge Marian O’Leary said the current situation “just can’t continue”.

She commented the boy’s father is not leading by example and she warned she will not tolerate the current level of absenteeism.

The matter was adjourned to June for review.