Public concern on catchment areas and fines

Responses to Education Bill consultation published

Catchment areas and fines for parents with suspended children were two issues on which the public disagreed with government in a recent consultation on the Education Bill.

More than 500 people responded to the document, which outlined some principles on which the Department of Education, Sport and Culture hopes to create new legislation.

These responses have now been published online.

Plans to fine parents whose children were out in a public place while suspended from school were dropped after only 45% of respondents agreed - the reminder were opposed or unsure.

Respondents agreed on teaching religious education as a normal curriculum subject, the registration of tutors, and on pre-school education.

Meanwhile, opinion was divided on whether the department should insist children attend schools in their catchment areas - 48% were against, but the remainder were for or unsure.

DESC Legal Manager Andrew Shipley says the department will reconsider its stance on fines, but remains committed on catchment areas:

All responses can be found at consult.gov.im, the feedback will now be incorporated when drafting the Bill.

Watch more of the interview on the Manx Radio Portal.