Couple face prosecution over approach to teen son's education

The parents of a teenage boy have been warned that their decision to withdraw him from school will have a detrimental effect on both his wellbeing and future prospects.

The 14-year-old child, who suffers from emotional difficulties, has not returned to school since September 2014 and his parents are now facing prosecution as a result of his absence.

In addition to co-operating with child welfare agencies, the child's parents may be fined up to €1,000 and face one month's imprisonment if they fail to comply with an official warning stating that their child must attend school.

Defending the couple, solicitor, David Stafford, told the court that the situation was complex and explained that there was a 'myriad of issues' to address.

Commenting on the case, Dorothy Ware, solicitor for the Child and Family Agency, asserted that the teen's parents had notified the school of their decision to move, but the child failed to register with a new school.

While the defence accepted that the teen suffered no physical impediment which justified his absence, Mr. Stafford did assert that the teen's learning difficulties may necessitate moving schools.

Adjourning the case and addressing the Dublin District Court, Judge Coughlan said: "Two wrongs do not make it right, the fact the child has difficulties in school is a problem to be addressed. Keeping the child out of school is not a solution to the problem, in fact it is making it worse."

The teen's parents, who did not speak during the proceedings, have not yet entered a plea.

The case is due to resume next month.