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Almost 4,000 people have signed a petition criticizing a high school in Co Carlow for telling female students not to wear tight clothing, as it can be a distraction for teachers.
Dozens of parents of students attending Presentation College Carlow have expressed their anger on social media.
A father told RTÉ News that his daughter was told not to wear tight leggings or sweatpants “as they show too much of the female anatomy.”
Wishing to remain anonymous, he said the students were also told not to remove their jumpers while in physical education.
Parents say the message was delivered at various assemblies last Friday.
The petition on Change.org says the students were told “they should not show their female anatomy, as it distracts the female and male school staff.”
Urges fellow students to sign the petition against “sexism against female students.”
Presentation College Carlow has said that the rules on the proper use of school uniforms have not changed from previous years, aside from the introduction of a half-zip shirt for freshmen.
A statement on the school’s website tonight said that students are regularly reminded of school rules and regulations at the assembly.
It read: “The school continues to address the pastoral care needs of all students through its excellent pastoral care / student support systems at the school.
“Any query in relation to the above from the parents of the students will be dealt with in the usual way through the usual school channels.”
Labor education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin apologized to the students at Presentation College Carlow.
“The school administration team at Presentation College Carlow should apologize to students and parents.
“This type of discourse is unacceptable in 2020. Girls are being objectified younger and younger and the last place we expect it from is from schools.
“Young girls should not feel embarrassed by the choice of clothing in their school communities,” Ó Ríordáin said.
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