Accused youths 'staying in schools'

Union is worried for teachers and pupils

A leading teacher's union has said at least seven children attending schools in Northern Ireland are facing court charges of murder, manslaughter or rape.

The statistic was revealed today following a meeting between the NASUWT and Northern Ireland Office minister Des Browne.

The union said it was concerned that a growing number of pupils facing serious charges are being re-admitted to schools.

NASUWT regional officer Tom McKee said schools were being asked to pay for Northern Ireland Office cutbacks in juvenile justice provision.

He said: "There are two things that the Northern Ireland Office will have to deliver that have to be arranged with magistrates: that the receiving schools will have to be involved in the discussions on bail terms.

"And secondly, schools will have to be given the additional finance that they will need to provide the intense level of supervision to protect the interests of the children and staff, and particularly of the young people who have been indicted."