Government reportedly planning to ban phones from classrooms

It is said that the issue of phones in schools has become a "scourge".

The Government are preparing plans to ban mobile phones from school classrooms, according to a new report. The Irish Mirror states that senior Government ministers are eager to combat the excessive use of phones - particularly smartphones - in Irish schools and that Education Minister Norma Foley is working on legislation to deal with the issue. The paper also reports that Tánaiste Micheál Martin is a "strong supporter" of the plans as a proposal is set to officially be brought to Cabinet within the coming weeks, "potentially as soon as the week after next".

Government reportedly planning to ban mobile phones from classrooms

A senior Government source told The Irish Mirror on Wednesday night: “A memo is being prepared by the Minister for Education [for Cabinet] and will be presented shortly.” This is as another source from senior Government said to the outlet that he will give the plan his wholehearted support. "It’s time to end the scourge of phones in our schools for the wellbeing of our children," he added. The Irish Mirror also reports that the exact logistics of the planned phone ban for classrooms have yet to be established, though the proposal is expected to be met with widespread support at Cabinet. Last week, meanwhile, Tommy Tiernan warned fans going to his upcoming live shows that they will be kicked out if they use their phones or smartwatches during his performances.

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