Respectful Online Communication
Programme: An Garda Síochána
Garda Daniel Cowman, based in
This Garda initiative forms part of the overall Garda Primary Schools
Programme which is a comprehensive education programme for senior pupils in
Primary Schools throughout the country. It promotes sensible and responsible
behaviour and fosters a positive attitude towards the Gardaí. It achieves this
through visiting the class room and engaging in discussion with the students.
The new initiative
addresses the personal safety that arises through communicating using new
media. It recognises the challenges that children and young people face in
modern society, particularly when using new technologies. It aims to foster a
sense of care and respect for others online or when using mobile phones and to
equip children with the skills to deal effectively with cyber bullying. It aims
to enhance the social skills of communication, cooperation and conflict resolution.
